Westchester Family - September 2018 by Schneps Media

September 2018

Growing Great Families for 28 Years

Reading is Cool

Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival Our Annual Education Directory All That and More

Local Children’s Bookstores Pick-Your-Own

Apples! + 148 AWESOME SEPTEMBER EVENTS WestchesterFamily.com

Thornton-Donovan will embark on a

Magical RealisM: Mongolia 2019

September 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

CONTENTS September 2018

Volume twenty-eight • number 9

departments

6 Editor’s Note 8 Bits & Pieces 10 Fab 4

4 Best Playgrounds for Toddlers

34 ASK THE SPECIALIST

4 Questions to Ask When Considering a Life Insurance Policy

36 LET’S GO TO ...

Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm

36 Last Bite

Hello Dolly: A Recipe from Nana’s Kitchen

calendar Family Activities for September

features 12

“A” is for Apple

Everyone is heading back to school, but that doesn’t mean family outings must stop. Keep learning your ABCs when you literally take on “A” is for apple at your local orchard. Yes, the top fun-for-all activity in September is apple picking. You can easily get apples in the food store or farmers’ market, but here in the Northeast pick-your-own is the perfect outdoor family activity.

16 22

Westchester’s Children’s Bookstore Scene

Westchester County is fortunate to have three bookstores with expansive areas exclusively dedicated to children and young adult books. Each of these special bookstores offer spaces that are intentionally comfortable, relaxed and welcoming, with enthusiastic, well-read staff that often know their young customers by name and reading history.

Technically Speaking

Westchester kids embrace theater technology and design in this exceptional hands-on program. The amazing process of stage tech and design is creative, challenging and so much more. And, so much more for the kids that learn how to create it.

September 2018

on the cover 20 24 16 12 39

Growing Great Families for 28 Years

Reading is Cool

Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival OUR ANNUAL EDUCATION DIRECTORY All That and More

Local Children’s Bookstores

Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival Annual Education Directory Local Children’s Bookstores Pick-Your-Own Apples 148 Fun September Events

Pick-Your-Own

Apples! + 148 AWESOME SEPTEMBER EVENTS WestchesterFamily.com

Cover Photo: Carolyn Angelina Photography carolynangelinaphotography@gmail.com carolynangelinaphotography.com

Westchester Family | September 2018

39 Top Pick: New York Air Show 42 Editor’s Pick: Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival 44 Editor’s Pick: Drop-In Clay Class 46 Festival Fun 48 #AnimalEncounters 50 Creative Crafts 51 City Picks

advertising 24 Education Guide

Coming Next Month Halloween Coverage If you live in the Hudson Valley region, you know Halloween is huge. After all, author Washington Irving penned the Legend of Sleepy Hollow featuring the Headless Horseman based on what is believed to be real-life events in and around Tarrytown. Read our comprehensive Halloween event coverage in the October issue. Escape Rooms No doubt you’ve heard of Escape Rooms. But are they a good outing for families? Our parent reviewer takes us to a nearby venue and tells us what she finds. Plus … Westchester Family’s award-winning searchable calendar for families and much more! Look for it starting September 20!

Looking for something fun to do this fall?

TAKE MUSIC LESSONS! Harrison’s Largest Music School 253 Halstead Ave., Harrison, NY 10528 (near the Harrison Train station)

• Convenient location in downtown Harrison • 7 state of the art teaching rooms • Security cameras in each room • Large glass windows on each door • Free trophies, achievement wristbands and certiﬁcates

• No hidden recital fees • Full-time oﬃce staﬀ • Lessons 7 days a week, morning until night • Lessons for children and adults • Unlimited make-up lessons • Comfortable parents lounge with free Wi-Fi, bottled water, & a children’s play area for siblings

Call 914-575-2288 now to get your spot or request more info online at HarrisonMusicSchool.com GUITAR PIANO VOICE

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(near the Harrison Train station)

914-575-2288 HarrisonMusicSchool.com

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September 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

Editor’s Note //

Published by Community News Group CEO Les Goodstein President & Publisher Jennifer Goodstein Westchester Family WestchesterFamily.com Publisher Clifford Luster cluster@cnglocal.com co-Publisher/ Editor Jean Sheff edit@westchesterfamily.com Managing Editor Vince DiMiceli

For the Love of Books After you complete your family I think you’ll find you are more than happy to discard the “baby” stuff. The once indispensable changing table, the well-used high chair and the headless stuffed animals that have been loved to death – they are recycled to make room for new needs. Now big kid beds, bikes, tutus, skates and LEGO sets will clutter your home. I know because I’ve been through it. There was, however, one thing I could never let go of … books. Well maybe the chewed up, mangled version of Pat the Bunny was retired, but everything else – no way. I am a little embarrassed, yet also proud to say I have nearly all the children’s books that ever entered my home, minus the library returns of course, and there were plenty of those. From the teeny-tiny board books to the soft and squishy bath books and pretty picture books to early readers and then chapter books to nonfiction tales – they are all secreted away, for the grandchildren, of course. That’s what’s amazing about children’s books, they are timeless. Just think, Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat was first published in 1957. My mother read it to me, I read it to my daughter and I bet she’ll read it to her child, not only because I have a copy to give her, but because this funny rhyming tale will still resonate with children. This month we celebrate children’s books with a feature article on local children’s bookstores. Corinne Zola reports that these

Feedback Share your feedback and ideas! 6

Westchester Family | September 2018

amazing shops offer books and so much more these days. We also zero in on the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival held on Sept. 29th, which is a must for families. When you take your head out of the books we know you’ll realize that pick-yourown apples is on your September to-do list. So we’ve also included a parent review of a local orchard and a list of some of the best places for your family to pick these tasty treats. It’s Grandparents Day on Sept. 9th, so consider making a recipe that’s been handed down from a grandparent or try the one we provide (along with a sweet story) in our Last Bite column. The big kids are heading back to school, but toddlers might like new something too. Read our “Best Playgrounds for Toddlers” and give the wee ones an adventure as well. Speaking of adventures, be sure to browse through our Calendar of Events. Andrea White has found some truly fun-tastic activities in September! Here’s to the start of a great school year filled with a ton of new books for your children – and for you too. Happy Reading, Jean Sheff Co-Publisher, Editor

Email us at edit@WestchesterFamily.com.

Calendar Editor Andrea White calendar@westchesterfamily.com ADVERTISING SALES Account Managers LynnMarie Hanley lynnmarie.hanley@westchesterfamily.com Nina Spiegelman nina.spiegelman@westchesterfamily.com PRODUctION Art Director Leah Mitch production@cnglocal.com Production Staff Arthur Arutyunov Daria Avvento Gardy Charles Earl Ferrer John Napoli Mark Ramos Connie Sulsenti DISTRIBUTION & CIRCULATION Roberto Palacios 718-260-4531

Please recycle this magazine.

Westchester Family (ISSN 1043-6774) is published monthly by Community News Group, LLC. Please note that the advertisements in this magazine are paid for by the advertisers, which allows this magazine to be free to the consumer. Limit of one free copy per reader. Unless specifically noted, no advertisers, products or services are endorsed by the Publisher. All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertising are available on an equal opportunity basis. Editorial submissions are welcome.

Contests //

Our September Contests Colorful Plates

Rescue Runts

Enter to win a set of STEM themed tableware from Colorfull Plates. Designed with positive and fun imagery of a diverse group of little astronauts, this plate, bowl and cup set put parent’s minds at ease because they are 100% melamine, no filler, BPA-free and non-toxic. They are also dishwasher safe, scratch and impact resistant and made in America. Available at colorfulplates.com. Retail value $12.95. Contest ends September 20, 2018. Enter now at westchesterfamily.com/tableware.

Rescue Runts by KD Kids need a home to call their own! The super soft plush puppies arrive in their crate packaging with matted fur full of fleas, dirty paws, bruises and bumps, tears in their eyes and downturned ears. Care for your Rescue Runt using the included grooming kit and choose a name and write it on the collar to make the adoption official. Just like any pet, Rescue Runts will need regular grooming, love and care so kids can engage in repeated animal rescue play. Rescue Runts’ fur will become messy again and dirt will reappear on their paws, so clean them up again and again! Rescue Runts include one pet, a brush, collar, tweezers and towel. For ages 3 and up. Available at Walmart. Retail value $19.99. Contest ends September 20, 2018. Enter now at westchesterfamily.com/rescue.

eetes � Th � Sw AY

BIRTHD PAoRwT�I!ES i� t

Scattered Books has your next great read, with fiction and non-fiction for kids and adults, personal attention, custom gift baskets, amazing parties, favors, fundraising, on-site vending at any event and the bookstore bunnies too! WWW.SCATTEREDBOOKS. COM

29 King St. Chappaqua, NY

• Custom Cakes • Baked Goods • Ice Cream & Milk Shakes • Candy • Dessert Platters • Gift Baskets • Hand-dipped Belgian Chocolates

380 Main Street, Armonk • 914-273-4777 info@sugar-hi.com • www.sugar-hi.com September 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

Bits & Pieces // Fast Facts and Timely Tips

Families.Broadway Special Broadway Offers for Families

courtesy image

Katya Nardone is geared up and ready to get on the ice with the Northern Bravehearts, an ice hockey team for children and adults with special needs.

A New Ice Hockey Team

If you’d love to take your kids to a Broadway show, or see more Broadway shows together, make sure to visit the website www.Families. Broadway. This new website brought to you by The Broadway League, Broadway’s national trade association, is a terrific resource. Here you’ll find offers, events and activities just for families. Throughout the year new items are posted so check in often. A recent visit to the site found ticket offers to several shows, including SpongeBob SquarePants, Waitress and A Bronx Tale, ranging from $75-$119 for orchestra seats to $59-$79 for mezzanine seats. That’s quite a savings! Other offers included a $25 Uber gift card, four tickets for the price of three and a

courtesy image

Savings for Broadway shows are just a click away at www.Families.Broadway. 40 percent off promo code. It may be time for back-to-school, but it’s always a good time to get back to Broadway.

For Adults and Children with Special Needs

The Northern Bravehearts Ice Hockey Club is ready to play their hearts out! This new ice hockey team, sponsored by RSC Westchester, invites all adults and children with special needs to skate with them at Brewster Ice Rink. There’s no experience required and some equipment is even provided. Kids and adults can acquire hockey skills and learn to execute basic plays. On Sunday, September 16th from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. players who have no or very little experience are invited to come to a short get together on the ice. You can get a feel for skating and make sure you this is the right program for you or your child. If you are unsure, shy, or nervous, please go anyway. You can just watch and then venture gradually onto the ice or skate freely. It doesn’t matter because all events are judgment-free zones with helpful volunteers to guide each individual at their own pace. On Sunday, October 14th, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. everyone is invited to an open skate event. The plan is to wear ice hockey gear and move around together on the ice. Tons of fun and good exercise await – sign up now. For more details email grahams.rscinc@gmail.com or see rscwestchester.com.

Westchester Family | September 2018

courtesy image

RIPPED Fitness of NYC has arrived in Rye Brook to get you in the best shape ever.

4 Reasons Runners Need Strength Training The kids are back in school and it’s time to get back to training. The New York City gym, RIPPED Fitness, is elevating the gym experience in Westchester and getting its residents in shape now that they have opened a branch in Rye Brook. The RIPPED training method is a HighIntensity Interval Training (HIIT) experience. Founded by Tri-state area native, Brian Ripka, RIPPED was created to offer a dynamic non-stop, heart-pounding workout of equal parts treadmill and strength training. After realizing there weren’t many workout classes for running, Ripka came up the concept for a high intensity cardio treadmill workout with dynamic strength and sculpting exercises. Ripka says if you want to up your run you have to add strength training. Here are his four reasons why. 1. Strength training is so important -

first and foremost because it builds your self-confidence. You feel strong physically, mentally and spiritually. All of that combines to make you a more powerful and better runner (and person). 2. Practically speaking, building core strength is critical to running and staying healthy. It’s injury preventive, particularly as we start to age. 3. A strong core and strong back leads to a decreased chance of lower back issues. 4. Because running is a total body exercise, it would be great to strength train in a total body weight training environment, but the most important training should be concentrated on quads, hip flexors, glutes and core. See you on the treadmill! Ripped Fitness, Rye Ridge Shopping Center, 14 Rye Ridge Plaza, Rye Brook. 914-481-5755. rippedfit.com.

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September 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

Fab 4 //

The 4 Best Playgrounds for Toddlers There’s no shortage of playgrounds in Westchester, but when your kids are small, not just any park will do. Younger children need parks with bucket swings, contained spaces, clean bathrooms close by, and unique equipment to capture their attention. We’ve scoured the county and found four playgrounds that are practically perfect for preschoolers.

Andrea Worthington

Crawford Playground in Rye Brook has some remarkably stellar equipment that is ideal for toddlers. Try Out Tandem Swings Crawford Playground in Crawford Park is the hidden gem of Rye Brook. Free ample parking, a picnic area, ball fields, large clean restrooms, and a fantastic playground that is great for little ones. There’s some remarkably stellar equipment here, including a dragonfly teeter-totter and an adult-propelled merry-go-round with molded seats (that circular metal death trap of our childhood is a thing of the past). Our favorite is the mommy-and-me swing, which looks like an infant bucket swing connected to a classic swing. You and baby face each other and as you move, they swing too.

Accessible Kidtopia Located inside Huguenot Park in front of New Rochelle High School, Jack’s Friendship Garden was built in 2006 with state-of-the-art equipment that is fully accessible. The large wide ramps up to the play area makes it easy for new walkers to get up – and their tired caregivers to follow along! This playground has trees and sun sails to provide shade, a large sandbox and multiple play structures, with some unusual features such as a large rocker you can wheel a stroller into. You might even see people fishing on nearby Huguenot Lake. Take a bathroom or book break at the Huguenot Children’s Library next door.

Beachside Blast This giant playground in Mamaroneck is nestled inside Harbor Island Park, an oceanfront oasis boasting playing fields, boat launches, a 700 ft. salt water beach, a spray park for kids and picnic areas. Enjoy free ample parking most of the year. This playground has a great mix of wooden, metal and plastic equipment, including a wooden ship-shaped sandbox and climbing structure and a tall fort with a two-story slide. The large disk swings are a favorite with kids of all ages. Parents love the shaded gazebo with benches, ocean views and nearby restroom facilities.

Crawford Park 122 North Ridge St., Rye Brook, N.Y. 914-939-3006 townofryeny.com/crawford-park

Jack’s Friendship Garden/ Huguenot Park 796 North Ave., New Rochelle, N.Y. 914-654-2000 newrochelleny.com/688/Parks

Harbor Island Playground 60-98 Harbor Island Park, Mamaroneck, N.Y. 914-777-7784 village.mamaroneck.ny.us/Pages/ MamaroneckNY_Recreation/parks

Westchester Family | September 2018

Fenced-In Fun Reis Park in Somers is a large complex of pavilions, trails, fields and courts complete with restroom facilities and easy parking. The playground inside has just as much variety, with multiple play structures, swing sets, and even a separate toddler area with a fence to keep the littlest ones contained. There’s a tiny tree fort for pretend play, a low climbing structure to shake the sillies out and plenty of tunnels and slides. Or venture out to the big-kid area to test the rock climbing domes or the tire swing. Reis Park 82 Primrose St., Somers, N.Y. 914-232-8441 somersny.com/Pages/SomersNY_ Parks/somersparks — Andrea Worthington owns BabyGotChat.com, a website for Westchester parents featuring resources, advice and events for infants and toddlers.

Come See Our Beautiful Expanded Facilities!

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961-3497 • www.crestwoodmusic.com Dr. Gines Didier Cano, Director

Open House September 9th with FREE classes

Come and Join us

Back-To-School Should be a Time of “Nice Supplies,” Not a Time of “Lice Surprise!”

Call 914.941.2939 to reserve a space in class or visit our website: LogreaDance.com

Logrea Dance Academy 2 Dale Ave • Ossining, NY

It’s that time of year again and L!ceOut911 is here to make lice checks a fun, back-to-school ritual. Seems crazy but, no one makes lice fun like LiceOut911. 573 Bedford Rd., Bedford Hills, NY (914) 689-3655 • www.liceout911.com Relax… You found us! September 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

is for Apple

By Jean Sheff

veryone is heading back to school, but that doesn’t mean family outings must stop. Keep learning your ABCs when you literally take on A is for apple at your local orchard. Yes, the top fun-for-all activity in September is apple picking. You can easily get apples in the grocery store, but here in the Northeast pick-your-own is the perfect

Westchester Family | September 2018

A Pick-Your-Own Guide

outdoor family activity. Plus, it’s educational, shouldn’t your children see how apples grow - certainly not in a plastic bag at the supermarket. And when kids pick apples, they tend to eat them too! So be prepared, your family will to polish off these nutritious beauties in no time. Visit these orchards for nearby apple picking. Some locations also sell other items such as farm fresh fruits, vegetables and apple cider. And some offer freshly made donuts

and apple pie. Others celebrate the season with hayrides, animals, corn mazes and kids’ activities. So, get the family together and go apple picking on a perfect September day! Heading Out to Pick-Your-Own Some farms have pick-your-own on weekends only so always call ahead to ask about activities, picking hours, crop availability, variety and prices to make sure your family has the best experience possible!

BRIDGING THE GAPS

Help Navigating the School System • • • •

IEP analysis, review and maintenance 504 Referral guidance Identify appropriate class setting Review testing, assessments and reports to prepare for annual and triennial meetings • Transition preparation: Pre-school to Elementary School/ Elementary School to Middle School/ Middle School to High School/High School to College • Work with school teams to ensure the maximum outcome for your child

JPONTE

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35 YEARS

TOP 5 2018

September 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

Westchester County, N.Y.

Long Island, N.Y.

Rockland County, N.Y.

Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard Country store, educational visits 130 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem 914-485-1210. harvestmoonfarmandorchard. com Outhouse Orchards Hayrides 139 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem 914-277-3188. outhouseorchardsny.com Stuart’s Farm 62 Granite Springs Road, Granite Springs 914-245-2784. stuartsfarm.com Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm Hayrides to and from the orchard 1335 White Hill Road, Yorktown Heights 914-245-5111. wilkensfarm.com

Davis Peach Farm Farm animals, apples Hulse Landing Road, Wading River 631-929-1115. davispeachfarm.com Fort Salonga Farm 30 Meadow Glen Road, Northport 631-269-9666. fortsalongafarm.com The Milk Pail 1346 Montauk Hwy., Water Mill 631-537-2565. milk-pail.com Seven Ponds Orchards 65 Seven Ponds Road, Water Mill 631-726-8015 Wickham’s Fruit Farm U-Pick yearly membership required purchase on arrival at farm, $20/family 28700 Main Road (Rte. 25), Cutchogue 631-734-6441. wickhamsfruitfarm.com

Dr. Davies Farm Hayrides 306 Rte. 304, Congers 845-268-7020. drdaviesfarm.com The Orchards of Concklin Rte. 45 and S. Mountain Road, Pomona 845-354-0369. theorchardsofconcklin.com

Dutchess County, N.Y. Barton Orchards Hayrides, petting zoo on weekends 63 Apple Tree Lane, Poughquag 845-227-2306. bartonorchards.com Cedar Heights Orchard Crosby Lane, Rhinebeck 845-876-3231. rhinebeckapples.com Fishkill Farms 9 Fishkill Farm Road, Hopewell Junction 845-897-4377. fishkillfarms.com Fraleigh’s Rose Hill Farm 19 Rose Hill Farm, off Rte. 9, Red Hook 845-758-4215. pickrosehillfarm.com Greig Farm 223 Pitcher Lane, Red Hook 845-758-1234. greigfarm.com Lawrence Farms Orchard 39 Colandrea Road, Newburgh 845-562-4268. lawrencefarmsorchards.com Mead Orchards 15 Scism Road, off Rte. 9, Tivoli 845-756-5641. meadorchards.com Meadowbrook Farms 29 Old Myers Corners Road, Wappingers Falls 845-297-3002. meadowbrookfarmmarket.com

Fairfield County, Conn. Blue Jay Orchards Hayrides start in October 125 Plumtrees Road, Bethel 203-748-0119. bluejayorchardsct. com Silverman’s Farm Open year-round, hayrides, animal farm 451 Sport Hill Road, Easton 203-261-3306. silvermansfarm.com

Westchester Family | September 2018

Orange County, N.Y. Applewood Orchard & Winery Wagon rides, puppet shows, farm animals 82 Four Corners Road, Warwick 845-986-1684. applewoodorchards.com Masker Orchards Music and horse-drawn wagon rides 45 Ball Road, off Rte. 17A, Warwick 845-986-1058. maskers.com Ochs Orchard Farm animals, baked goods and ice cream 4 Ochs Lane, off Rte. 94, Warwick 845-986-1591. ochsorchard.net Pennings Orchard Hayrides, farm market, farm animals 169 State Rte. 94 South, Warwick 845-986-7080. penningsorchard.com Warwick Valley Winery and Distillery 114 Little York Road, Warwick 845-258-4858. wvwinery.com

Ulster County, N.Y. Apple Hill Farm Hayrides 124 Rte. 32 South, New Paltz 845-255-1605. applehillfarm.com Apple Valley Farms 155 N. Ohioville Road, New Paltz 845-255-7077 Dressel Farms Pick-your-own weekends only, hayrides 271 Rte. 208, New Paltz 845-255-0693. dresselfarms.com Hurd’s Family Farm Hayrides and farm animals 2187 Rte. 32, Modena 845-883-7825. hurdsfamilyfarm.com Jenkins-Lueken Orchards 69 Yankee Folly Road, New Paltz 845-255-0999. jlorchards.com Locust Grove Fruit Farm Weekends only, farm stand, cider donuts and wagon rides 199 North Road, Milton 845-795-5194. locustgrovefruitfarm.com Minard Farms 250 Hurds Road, Clintondale 866-632-7753. minardfarms.com Prospect Hill Orchards Hayrides 40 Clarkes Lane, Milton 845-795-2383. prospecthillorchards.com Tantillo’s Farm Market 730 Rte. 208, Gardiner 845-256-9109. tantillosfarm.com Weed Orchards Hayrides, farm animals, cafe and bakery 43 Mt. Zion Road, Marlboro 845-236-2684. weedorchards.com Wilklow Orchards 341 Pancake Hollow Road, Highland 845-691-2339. wilkloworchards.com

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Don’t just sit there

SPECIALIZING IN PIANO, KEYBOARDS KEYBOARDS AND ANDVOICE VOICE Ages 2-4 with parent participation. Plant the seed of music in your child! MUSIC LAND Ages 4-5 with parent participation. A delightful experience for Mozarts of the future MUSIC FOR LITTLE PEOPLE Ages 5-7 with parent participation. Unique Russian-Japanese method. Experience the Magic of Music. ADVENTURES IN KEYBOARD Ages 8-12. Tradition on a new note. Piano instruction for the child of the new millennium.

Bring out the musical talent in your child! TOP 5 2018

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September 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

Cozy, Welcoming and Inspiring

Westchester’s Children’s Bookstore Scene By Corinne L. Zola

very first Friday of the month for the last two years, 10-year-old Una Goodspeed of New Rochelle joins fellow readers for pizza and conversation about books in The Uncommon Corps of Ravenous Readers Book Club at The Voracious Reader in Larchmont. Una is a self-described “book maniac” but it wasn’t always this way. “When Una was in 3rd grade, her teacher told me she noticed that Una wasn’t excited about books,” says Laura Goodspeed, Una’s mother. “I had heard about this great bookstore for children so I brought Una in to look around.” Goodspeed credits The Voracious Reader owner Francine Lucidon with inspiring her daughter to be an enthusiastic reader. “Francine meets the kids where they are, remembers their interests and helps them fine tune their reading choices. There is something about her recommendations that really resonate,” says Goodspeed. Westchester County is fortunate to have three bookstores - Little Joe’s (Katonah), Scattered Books (Chappaqua) and The Voracious Reader (Larchmont) – with expansive areas exclusively dedicated to children and young adult books. Each of these special bookstores offer spaces that are intentionally comfortable, relaxed and welcoming, with enthusiastic, well-read staff that often know their young customers by name and reading history. Building a Community of Readers Children’s bookstores are selling the experience of enjoying books as much as the

Westchester Family | September 2018

Scattered Books

Bunnies make the best reading companions at Scattered Books in Chappaqua.

books themselves. They share a common goal of building positive associations with the bookstore experience and helping their clients find joy in books.

“Choosing a book is like a new pair of shoes, it has to be the right fit,” says Gretchen Menzies, owner of Little Joe’s. “We talk to the kids, not necessarily the parents, listen to

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(914) 965-7676 www.Gymcats.net

September 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

what they have to say and help guide them. When kids, toddler to teen, find the right book it’s like they are leaving with a treasure.” “I treat each child with respect, learning what they are curious about, what motivates them. There is nothing better than getting it right and finding a book that makes their eyes light up,” says Francine Lucidon, of The Voracious Reader. “I feel privileged to be trusted by parents to help their children make reading discoveries. I see it as so important because it helps children build their own thoughtfulness and perspective about their world.” While online shopping presents significant competition to booksellers, Scattered Books owner Laura Schaeffer finds that a less discussed challenge is reluctance; that is, reluctance to look around, to try new ideas or authors, or even admit to liking certain kinds of books. “Anyone can order books online, but what you don’t get there is a personal connection. I meet a lot of kids who are falling out of an interest in reading. They might be nervous about their reading level or not sure how to find an entry point,” says Schaeffer. “We try to make the store feel like a safe, low-pressure place where we encourage reluctant and eager readers alike to find the right connections. This also means encouraging parents to let their kids take the lead, even if it might mean going down a level in reading in order to build confidence.” “I am so happy that my kids will grow up with a bookstore in their little town, where they feel at home and comfortable,” says Sabine Asselbergs, a mom of two young children and an employee of Little Joe’s. “For the community it means a place to connect with like-minded people, with staff who know your kids and literally watch your kids grow up through the books they read.”

Other Bookstores in Westchester with Children’s Sections Anderson’s Book Shop 96 Chatsworth Ave., Larchmont 914-834-6900 andersonsbooksny.com Twice weekly interactive storytime for children 18 months and up. Arcade Booksellers 15 Purchase St., Rye 914-967-0966 arcadebooks.com Barnes & Noble Locations in Eastchester, Mohegan Lake, White Plains and Yonkers 914-472-0689 stores.barnesandnoble.com Storytime every Saturday morning Galapagos Books 22 Main St., Hastings-on-Hudson 914-478-2501 galapagosbooks.com Village Bookstore 10 Washington Ave., Pleasantville 914-769-8322

From Bookstore Bunnies to Midnight Release Parties Westchester’s three bookstores for children and teens each have their own unique personality and vibe.

Joe’s children’s book loft as more like a living room than a store - think shoes off, curled up on the floor or in the cushioned window seat with a good book. Books are organized by reader interest and level, with books for the youngest children on shelves nearly at floor level for easy access. Katonah is a very walkable town and Little Joe’s works hard to be part of the fabric of the community. Opening at 5:50 a.m. every day for commuters, the store then transitions to the toddler set in the early part of the day to the tweens and teens who visit after school and spend time flipping through the books and talking about what they are reading. What makes a visit to Little Joe’s even better? Possibly the ice cream, cookies, brownies, smoothies and snacks in the first floor Coffee Shop as well as tons of high-quality science, art and craft gift items to browse.

Little Joe’s 25 Katonah Ave., Katonah 914-232-7278 littlejoesbooks.com

Scattered Books 29 King St., Chappaqua 914-529-8013 scatteredbooks.com

Owner Gretchen Menzies describes Little

The bookstore bunnies Acorn, Oatmeal and

Westchester Family | September 2018

Pumpkin wander the floor of the children’s book area, but that’s just one reason to visit. Owner Laura Schaeffer designed Scattered Books to feel unpressured, safe and relaxing. The store is coffee- and dog-friendly, and is a comforting place where many customers (children and adults) are known by both their first names and reading interests. The open, sunlit area for children’s books has a lovely, eclectic vintage feel, with lots of cushions and rugs to sit on and an enthusiastic well-read staff, many of whom are teenagers, who make recommendations. Storytime with the bunnies is offered every Tuesday. Preschool through middle school students are invited to write book reviews and then receive a $5 gift card to shop in the store. Available for birthday parties with themes ranging from Bunny Parties to Cupcake Wars to Dino Dig. The Voracious Reader 1997 Palmer Ave., Larchmont 914-630-4581 thevoraciousreader.com

The only bookstore in Westchester dedicated to children’s and young adult books. Owner Francine Lucidon wanted to reflect her daughter’s childhood love of the Victorian Gothic Series of Unfortunate Events books, but wanted a brighter playful flair. Calling it “cozy, faux, fun posh,” the store is pretty and proper, and encourages children to take themselves seriously as readers. This is not to say that the space is stern in any way, quite the opposite. It is sunny and friendly, with the space organized by age so very young children can explore in their own area, while children from elementary through middle and high school can find the books that suit their levels and interests. The store offers an active program of community events, author visits, book clubs, storytimes and midnight release parties for special titles. There is also a birthday party space available. Customers are encouraged to spend quality time with a book and conversation in the adjacent teashop, A Proper Cup. Corinne L. Zola is a founder and current board member of the Westchester Children’s Museum. She lives in Mamaroneck with her husband and two kids, all of whom love a good visit to a bookstore.

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courtesy image

2018 Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival Your Favorite Children’s Book Authors Up Close and in Person Saturday Sept. 29, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Since we are talking about books, did you know that more than 95 renowned children’s book authors and illustrators will be on hand to meet young readers, sign books and read aloud at the 2018 Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival (CCBF)? As the largest children’s book festival in the metropolitan tri-state region, CCBF gives kids and families a chance to meet the creators of their favorite characters. The free event is expected to attract upwards of 7,000 attendees from all over the region. Among the authors scheduled are perennial favorites Rosemary Wells, Victoria Kann, Bruce Degen, Bernard Most, Gail Carson Levine, Sally Cook, Barbara Dee and Peter Lerangis. More than 20 new authors and illustrators join the roster, including Tracey Baptiste, John Parra, Lori Wallmark, Michael Northrop, Veera Hiranandani, Torrey Maldonado, Michael Rex, Jennifer Rollo, Samantha Berger and MacKenzie Cadenhead. Proceeds of the non-profit festival will support literacy programs in schools throughout Westchester. “Authors are amazing people and don’t often get a chance to meet their fans,” says CCBF founder Dawn Greenberg. “The Festival, which grows bigger and better each year, creates excitement about reading while giving authors an opportunity to interact with the kids who love their work.” A full and fun day of readings, illustrator demos, signings, crafts and activities is planned. A Gourmet Food Court features food trucks from around the region.

Little Joe’s

Kids can snuggle into a comfy corner and browse through their favorite books at Little Joe’s in Katonah.

Westchester Family | September 2018

Sept. 29, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Robert E. Bell Middle School, Chappaqua, N.Y. Free admission and parking Rain or shine Visit ccbfestival.org for more information

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Technically Speaking Westchester Kids Embrace Theater Technology and Design in This Exceptional Program By Elena Deutsch-Glantz

audio, hang lights, design props and costumes, work computers for nd the 2018 Tony Award for digital stage effects and may have an Best Sound Design of a Play opportunity to be the stage manager goes to. …” Silence. A tight shot of and “call” the show. the nominees fills the screen. All are The program is designed to be unrecognizable to us at home. non-competitive and rewarding. The stage manager; the set “Fostering every child and the belief designer; the lighting director; the that each child has a unique talent costume designer; the makeup artist; and sense of purpose,” says Gabrielle and the sound engineer – we know Mason of the PGT program. It is in these folks … they are all part of tech class either at school or at PGT the tech crew, the often unknown that her son, now 16, feels his best superheroes of a production. Yet they self. “It is the connection and mutual make the magic! The amazing process admiration they develop for each of stage tech and design is creative, member of the crew that allows them challenging and so much more. And, to thrive,” says Mason. so much more for the kids that learn A tech program can help kids how to create it. build their confidence and discover what support is all about. “We teach A Learning Process our students to really look at each Courtesy photo I’m so very intrigued by the art and other, they see each other. Nobody is Steven Abusch, co-founder and executive director of the Play craft of stage tech. The stage hands, invisible. Nobody gets overlooked. Group Theatre, helps a student with set design construction. engineers, deck crew are the wizards They gain a tremendous amount behind every production. We all know of admiration and respect for each they are there but once the curtain goes up we learning and so necessary for our kids. other,” says Abusch. Their confidence and quickly forget (and that is part of the magic). Instructing through a working art process inspiration becomes evident in the work. A good theater tech program will introduce, teaches accountability, innovation and teach and encourage real skills and some problem solving. It teaches the importance of An Ultimate STEAM Class invaluable real life lessons. digging deep into your own voice. A student Tech and design is the ultimate STEAM “Dare to fail,” says Jill Abusch artistic can explore every angle and then decide class. It is a playground for tinkering using director and co-founder of the Play which is the best fit for the task at hand. This tools, clothing, makeup and technology. It Group Theatre (PGT) in White Plains is significant for any child at any age and will inspires creative thinking that encourages that offers a Design Tech program with carry them far in life, whether they pursue a thinking way out of the box and takes it one areas of concentration in costume, scenic career in theater or art or in something else. step further in requiring that you figure out and technical design and engineering. how to make it work. Sometimes without “We provide opportunities for active The Program clueing in the audience as to how it was experimentation and exploration, for every The Playgroup Theatre tech design program achieved. Giving an actor the necessary guise voice to be heard and listened to, and for is a hands-on learning experience that to inhabit their role is no joke, nor is building mistakes to be a welcomed part of the creative is often taught by established industry a working prop that makes a scene come process.” Mistakes are an integral part of professionals. Students build sets, mix alive. And lighting the stage to create just the

“A

Westchester Family | September 2018

Courtesy photo

Students in the Play Group Theatre Tech Program find the technical aspects of theater fun and challenging.

right mood for the audience to laugh or cry and sometimes both – that too. Actors know that these tech crew roles are essential to their success. It is a gift for a child to have the opportunity to explore in this arena. It goes beyond the obvious art and craft. Perhaps this is why, here in tech, that many kids find themselves a second home. There is an intangible bond among them, which is evident watching them work sometimes independently but always as a creative whole. The student is rewarded with a sense of ownership, sense of purpose and great mutual respect. On With the Show And in the end, after the final curtain, there is this. There is a production, which provides a continuous payday. The show ends but the lessons learned run deep and

the relationships formed are long-lasting. I was not surprised to learn these theater peeps have a somewhat magical ritual. At PGT, a tradition was established with the very first performance more than 20 years ago. Before each perfromance everyone comes together to form one big circle moments before the curtain goes up. The details of the ritual that follows can vary from director to director but the essence is the same. This coming together allows everyone to take a quiet moment, to make eye contact, to focus on the task at hand and to commit to the support and energy they will give to and take from each other during the show. Sometimes they hold hands and send a hand squeeze or pulse around the circle, sometimes each member shares a word representing what they will be working on during the show – perhaps ‘energy’ or ‘focus’. And sometimes they use Angel Cards. Each

person pulls a random card that has an affirming word printed on it. Each member holds their card close to their heart. One by one they each call out their word. And the group collectively cheers, “Yes!” “... and the 2018 Tony Award for Best Sound Design of a Play goes to ... Gareth Fry for Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Parts 1 and 2.” There is a genuine and joyful round of applause in the theater. And for all of us watching from home, though we may not recognize the name, we recognize the significance of this creative contribution, achievement and talent. It’s magic! Elena Deutsch-Glantz is a Westchester mom, former talent agent and manager and current consultant on obtaining a successful career as an actor. She is married and has three children and two dogs that help keep it real. September 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

Education Guide // Special Advertising Supplement

2018

Education Guide Special Advertising Supplement

A Child’s Dream, LLC 10 Mill Road, New Rochelle 914-633-4332 A Child’s Dream Nursery and Preschool features a small, personalized setting that creates a secure and structured environment. This encourages children to socialize and interact while learning. Offering 2-, 3- and 4-year-olds programs two to five days a week. OPEN HOUSE Thursday, November 15th, 10amnoon. All Aboard Childcare Education Centers Ossining, 914-923-1700 Valhalla, 914-741-1500 allaboardchildcare.com Family owned and operated since 1996, All Aboard provides a safe, secure, child-centered environment for infants, toddlers, pre-K and school-aged children. Hands-on, developmental curriculum for infants & toddlers. A pre-K curriculum that meets NYS Kindergarten readiness standards. Degreed, certified staff, nutritious meals and many enrichment programs.

Ann & Andy’s 2170 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford 914-592-3027 annandandychildcare.com Each child is considered first, as an individual, and then as a member of the group. Regularly planned group activities meet the natural, physical, emotional and cognitive needs of children at play. The staff is carefully trained to promote a positive environment and to keep a balanced routine that does not stress or overstimulate children.

Chapel School 172 White Plains Road, Bronxville, 914-337-3202 thechapelschool.org Since 1947, The Chapel School has served a wonderfully diverse community with a safe, nurturing, loving Christian environment, academic challenge, small class sizes for individualized attention, expanding extra-curricular programming and preparation for success in the area’s top high schools. The Chapel School helps today’s learners to develop into tomorrow’s leaders.

Ardsley Community Nursery 21 American Legion Dr., Ardsley 693-4932 acns.us The Ardsley Community Nursery School is proud of its caring staff and dynamic enrichment program. Creative and developmentally appropriate academic activities are based on weekly themes and geared toward recognizing the talents of each child. A lovely playground and local field trips enhance programming. Half- and full-day options are available.

Dicker Reading Method 75 Brook St., Scarsdale 914-472-0600 dickerreading.com The Dicker Reading Method can teach any child to read, even children diagnosed as learning disabled, ADD, ADHD or dyslexic. Children reading below, at or above grade level, can achieve three to six years of reading improvement in one year. Parents will see an immediate improvement in reading achievement, comprehension and vocabulary development.

Westchester Family | September 2018

First Congregational Church 210 Orchard Ridge Road Chappaqua 914-238-4411 fcc-chappaqua.org First Congregational Church in Chappaqua offers Church School sessions for all ages and service opportunities for 7th grade and up. An out of town Mission project is planned for President’s week. They are a church that welcomes everyone, so join them! For more information, call Bruce Page, the Christian Ed Coordinator at 914-262-5396. French-American School of New York (FASNY) Nursery-grade 3: Manor Campus 111 Larchmont Ave., Larchmont Grade 4-8: Village Campus 145 New St., Mamaroneck Grade 9-12: Harbor Campus 320E Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck Admissions Office: Marine Heraud, Director of Admissions 914-250-0401 admissions@fasny.org www.fasny.org A bilingual and international

September 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

Education Guide // Special Advertising Supplement

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coeducational day school (Nursery-Grade 12), FASNY offers a rigorous dual curriculum in French and English. Students graduate with a FASNY high school diploma and either the French or International Baccalaureate. Children learn to read, write, conceptualize and socialize in multiple languages. Non-francophone students encouraged to apply in preschool and to its IB track! Lyceum Kennedy French American School One Cross Road, Ardsley 914-479-0722 lyceumkennedy.org Looking for a school where your child can discover the world close to home - and around the world? With bilingual classes (French/English), nursery to 5th grade, great facilities, after school and summer programs. Lyceum Kennedy has everything you and your child are looking for. The Ardsley Transition program welcomes students without any French language skills. Hudson Country Montessori School 340 Quaker Ridge Road, New Rochelle 636-6202 hudsoncountry.org Inspiring and promoting innate curiosity and love of learning through their progressive Montessori pedagogy. Striving to help children grow into respectful, socially adept and compassionate leaders. The curriculum is designed to

empower students to become independent, creative thinkers and confident achievers. Private, co-educational school, toddlers (18 months) through 8th grade. Schedule a private tour today! Immaculate Heart of Mary 201 Bouleva Road, Scarsdale 914-723-5608;ihmscarsdale.org Nearly 90 years of exceptional Catholic education, this school has been recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence. Offering programs for children ages 3 to grade 8. They also offer full time pre-K program and an after-school program. OPEN HOUSES: Wednesdays, Oct. 24, 2018 & Jan. 30, 2019 from 9-11am. Liberty Montessori Schools 155 Beechmont Dr., New Rochelle 914-636-3461 631 W. Boston Post Road,Mamaroneck 914-777-1382 libertymontessorischools.com Offering programs for toddlers through 4th grade: unique kindergarten enrichment curriculum that includes their special music program and the Challenger Program for advanced students. They also have special multilingual programs in Chinese, French, German, Spanish and Japanese. Call now to make an appointment to tour their facility and learn more about Liberty.

TEMPLE ISRAEL CENTER NURSERY SCHOOL Stay & Play extended hours for 2’s, 3’s and 4’s til 4:00pm! • Mommy & Me • Music Classes • FREE Drop-in Babies & Bagels Program • 2, 3, 4 Year Old Classes • Early Drop-off, Afternoon Enrichment • Lunch Programs • Summer Camp • Judaic • Nature • Music • Movement Specialists • Reggio-Inspired

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FRENCH-AMERICAN SCHOOL OF NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AND BILINGUAL SCHOOL

N HOUSE

9th • 10am-12pm Discover Our Bilingual Preschool Preschool Opening in Larchmont September 2018!

NO FRENCH REQUIRED FOR PRESCHOOLER S

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A Child’s Dream, LLC. Where your child’s dreams are discovered Nursery & Pre-K 10 Mill Rd., New Rochelle, NY 10804 (914) 633-4332

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November November15th 9th • 10am-12pm

Now Registering for Fall 2018 Director: Tiffany Amaya Curriculum includes: Language Arts, Social Studies, Math, Science, Developing Motor Skills, and Social Skills. Our goal is to create a secure and structured environment where your child enjoys socializing and interacting with other children while learning.

www.fasny.org / 914.250.0401 September 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

Education Guide // Special Advertising Supplement

Ardsley Community Nursery School & Day Care 21 American Legion Dr • Ardsley (914) 693-4932 www.acns.us

✓ AM and PM classes for children 2-5 ✓ Enrichment programs in dance, music, art, science, nature and yoga ✓ Weekly and hourly rates ✓ Diaper friendly ✓ Beautiful outdoor play area ✓ Local field trips

Celebrating over 50 Years of fun!

First Congregational Church

Offers a Christian Education program on Sundays at 10am for toddlers through 7th grade beginning Sept. 9

Youth Opportunity Fair

Visit our booth at Chappaqua’s

Come talk with over 30 volunteer organizations

Sept. 15

Oct. 21, 12-2pm for 5-12 graders

Community Day

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Westchester Family | September 2018

Mazel Tots Program Scarsdale Synagogue Temples Tremont and Emanu-El 2 Ogden Road, Scarsdale 914-723-3001 sstte.org A child-centered program that is developmentally appropriate for newborns to 4-year-olds. Their warm, nurturing, specialistrich environment encourages children to grow socially, emotionally and intellectually. A Jewish component focuses on the study of holidays, traditions and family values. Parenting, toddler and preschool programs. Director, Jody Glassman. Assistant Director, Jocelyn Gross. Memorial United Methodist Early Childhood Center 250 Bryant Ave, White Plains 914-949-4187 earlychildhoodcentermumc.org The ECC’s long-term faculty offers a developmentally appropriate learning experience, which supports the physical, social, emotional and cognitive development of each child. Their atmosphere is warm, nurturing and child-centered. They embrace each child’s personality and learning style and provide a ready-for-school curriculum that will meet their individual needs. Milestone School 70 W. Broad St., Fleetwood 914-667-3478 themilestoneschool.com Founded 40 years ago on the premise that “good beginnings never end,” Milestone offers its students from preschool through fourth grade a strong academic foundation while leaving room for the child to explore many other disciplines from yoga to its highly acclaimed Shakespeare program. Small classroom sizes foster confidence, independence, and a desire to learn. Montessori School of Pelham 1415 Pelhamdale Ave. Pelham Manor 914-738-1127 montessorischoolpelhamny.com

Upholding a “tradition of excellence” for over 35 years, this school firmly and consistently holds to the principles of child development devised by Dr. Maria Montessori. Children ages 3 to 5 work with apparatus in a prepared environment progressing at their own rate, developing the confidence and love of learning that is the hallmark of Montessori. Play Care Nursery School 210 Orchard Ridge Road, Chappaqua 914-238-6206/914-238-4411 A child’s time at Play Care is a balance of structured, age appropriate activities, academics and well-supervised free choice time. Play Care offers a flexible schedule for ages 18 mos-5 years to meet the needs of families. Extended day and enrichment opportunities are also available. Preschool/Kindergarten Reading Program By the Dicker Reading Method 75 Brook St., Scarsdale 914-472-0600 mommyicanread.com This revolutionary preschool/ kindergarten reading program will enable your 3-, 4- or 5-yearold to learn 15 to 30 words in their first session. Then they will learn to read sentences and ultimately enjoy reading their first book fluently! Your child’s confidence and self-esteem will soar as they develop a love for reading. It’s fun, easy and a game. Soundview Preparatory School 370 Underhill Ave., Yorktown Heights 914-962-2780 soundviewprep.org A small independent day school for grades 6-12. Soundview offers responsiveness to students, a rigorous academic program, supportive environment and a sense of community. Classes average seven students, with a 4-to-1 student-faculty ratio. Students develop academic skills, self-esteem and leadership in small classes where teachers know the learning style and interests of each individual.

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September 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

Education Guide // Special Advertising Supplement

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Temple Israel Center Nursery School 280 Old Mamaroneck Road, White Plains 914-948-2800, ext. 126 templeisraelcenter.org Providing a warm and nurturing environment rich with Jewish culture and traditions where children can achieve their full potential - socially, emotionally, creatively, cognitively and physically. Classes for 2-, 3-, and 4-year-olds, mommy and me programs, music class for toddlers, early drop-off, afternoon enrichment programs, lunch programs and summer camp. They have extended their hours until 4pm. Thornton-Donovan School 100 Overlook Circle New Rochelle 914-632-8836 www.td.edu Westchester’s Little Red School House enters its 118th year and as a thematic high school is

celebrating “Magic Realism” in the country of Mongolia. About 170 students from 35 different countries with a faculty of 26 and seven foreign languages taught each day, Thornton-Donovan is an international gateway. Sister schools on five continents allow for considerable student exchange. Torbank Nursery School 108 Pinesbridge Road, Ossining 914-941-1563 torbanknurseryschool.com Founded in 1956 by a small group of women with a common goal that included parents and teachers working together to give their children the best pre-school experience. The program offers an environment where students can experience the world with enthusiasm and interest. Two-, three- or five-day programs for ages 18 months to 5 years

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Ask the Specialist //

4 Questions to Ask When Considering a Life Insurance Policy By Pamela Yellen

arents often ask: Do we need life insurance? How much? What kind? Consider this: More than a third (35 percent) of U.S. households would feel a financial pinch within a month if the primary wage earner died, according to a recent study (2018 Insurance Barometer Study, Life Happens and LIMRA). If you have minor children or other dependents, this is the most obvious reason for having life insurance – to provide for them financially. Would your spouse’s income cover all your family’s expenses, including food, housing, transportation and medical costs? Do you have enough savings to pay these as well as future expenses such as college and retirement? Most people don’t, so they need a plan to cover those costs. How much you pay for insurance will depend on choices you make when choosing among various types of life insurance policies. Start by looking at your family’s specific needs. 1. Who needs my help? Who depends on you now, and who may need your help in the foreseeable future? The answer could include your children, perhaps a parent who may need help in the future, or others in your care. List their names down the left side of a sheet of paper, and leave plenty of room next to each name to add additional information about your current and potential dependents. 2. How much will they need? Determine how much you now provide for each dependent. Consider how much you spend monthly for your household, then, back out the amount you figure goes to provide for you – your share of the groceries, your clothing, vehicle and so forth. Consider that your spouse will face the same mortgage payment. Check into other sources of funds. Social Security survivor and dependent benefits will probably be available. Do you have pensions, or a group life insurance plan? Consider whether other relatives would be inclined to help provide for your children. Once you’ve

Westchester Family | September 2018

come up with a rough total, divide it up among your dependents, and write an annual amount on the line for each. 3. How long will they need help? How long will each of your dependents and potential dependents need financial support, if something were to happen to you today? When assessing your life insurance needs, always begin with the assumption that you are no longer around to provide support. If you plan for the worst-case scenario, you’ve done the best planning you can. You’re going to have to do some guessing, especially in the case of potential dependents. Do the math (amount per year times the number of years), and put the total sum for each dependent on their line. Then write down the total for that column and draw a circle around it. 4. Will my spouse continue to work? Whether or not your spouse is working now, they will need time off after your death to hold tight to the children, to grieve, to handle arrangements and paperwork. And they’ll probably only be able to move at half-speed for months. Plan to give them some time. At a minimum, assume your spouse will not work for six months following your death. Yes, these things are difficult to think about. But they are much easier to think about now – while you’re part of the conversation – than they will be when you’re not around. Estimate the number of years from the time your spouse resumes work until the time

you expect your dependents will no longer need financial support. Multiply that number by an estimate of your spouse’s annual earnings (a larger number if your spouse is a brain surgeon; a smaller number if your spouse is a teacher’s aide). Subtract that total from the number in the circle. What you end up with is a very rough approximation of what it will take to provide for your family. It’s probably more money than you thought. You didn’t realize you were so valuable, did you? Congratulations! These are the initial questions to answer when considering purchasing life insurance. Once you know what your goals are you can begin investigating life insurance policies that can help you meet them. Pamela Yellen is founder of Bank On Yourself, a financial investigator and the author of two New York Times’ best-selling books, including her latest, The Bank On Yourself Revolution: Fire Your Banker, Bypass Wall Street, and Take Control of Your Own Financial Future (2015, Hayward-Yellen 100 Ltd. Partnership). Pamela investigated more than 450 financial strategies seeking an alternative to the risk and volatility of stocks and other investments. Learn more at BankOnYourself.com.

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Let’s Go To ... //

When You Go …

Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm

Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm 1335 White Hill Road Yorktown Heights, N.Y. 914-245-5111 wilkensfarm.com Days: Open daily until mid-December Hours: Pick-Your-Own Fruit: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Markets: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call ahead for apple varieties and in case of inclement weather Fees: No admission, parking or hay wagon fee. A minimum purchase required of 11 pounds of apples per two adults and 22 pounds per three to four adults. Prices vary based on weather and variety of apples

available that day. If riding in a hay wagon isn’t your child’s idea of fun, don’t fret. The picking orchards are within walking distance but bear in mind that the terrain can be uneven, especially if you are bringing a stroller. I’ve found that taking a jogging stroller is especially useful for this type of trip. Fun in the Corn Maze When Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm celebrated their 100th birthday in 2016, they decided to design a corn maze. It has been such a hit that they’ve once again created a maze for this season. Your kids will love getting lost (and found!) in the maze.

By Stacey Pfeffer

othing epitomizes the arrival of autumn weather like an apple picking trip in the Hudson Valley. This trip is an annual ritual for many Westchester families and while many choose to venture to orchards further afield in Dutchess or Putnam counties, Westchester is home to one of the oldest apple orchards, Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm in Yorktown Heights celebrating its 102nd harvest this fall. Whether your family loves McIntosh or Macoun apples, chances are you’ll find it here on this 180-acre farm with more than 40 varieties of apples available. It’s a perfect destination if you are looking to spend a whole day picking apples or if your little ones have a more limited attention span, a trip there can easily be done in under two hours. Be sure to arrive early especially on weekends when the crowds tend to descend upon the farm due to its close proximity to the city. September is officially the best time to pick apples at their farm and the varieties tend to change weekly so check ahead on their

Westchester Family | September 2018

website at wilkensfarm.com. The Red Pavilion The process for picking apples at Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm is easy and, unlike some other orchards, they do not charge a parking fee. When you arrive at the farm, staff will be on-site guiding guests where to park and to the Red Pavilion. At the Pavilion, you’ll be able to rent a picking pole for a small deposit and purchase baskets and bags. In order to enter the orchard, you will also have to pay a minimum fee, which is 1/4 bushel bag (11 pounds) of apples for every two adults and 1/2 bushel bag (22 pounds) for every three to four adults. Prices vary based on the weather and the variety of apples being picked. Depending on when you get there in the season and the height of your children, a picking pole may not be necessary. It is best to ask the staff for guidance if you aren’t sure. Hop on the Hayride Now that you’ve got your apple picking tools, hop on the hay wagon for a short ride and you’ll be driven to the picking orchards

End Your Trip on a Sweet Note After you’ve picked your apples and completed the maze, chances are you’ve worked up an appetite. Make sure you visit one of three shops located on-site. The Bakery features delicious apple-cider doughnuts, fruit pies, strudel sticks, fudge and other baked goods. If you forgot to pack lunch, they also sell hot dogs and other kid-friendly favorites. The Apple Farm Market has jams, jellies, pears, plums, nectarines and peaches. If you are craving local crafts such as scarecrows or Wilkens branded apparel, check out the Country Market. Additional Tips for a Fun-Filled Day Bear in mind that the orchards can get pretty sunny and hot during September so pack plenty of sunscreen, hats and water. Wear comfortable shoes and socks to avoid any exposure to poison ivy. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos to serve as a wonderful memento of your apple picking adventures. Stacey Pfeffer is a writer and editor based in Chappaqua.

September 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

Great Great Food, Food, Fun Fun Family Family Activities Activities and and Entertainment Entertainment

95 95 AUTHORS AUTHORS

Free admission | Rain or shine Free admission | Rain or shine

Author Author Book Book Signings Signings and and Readings Readings

Illustration by Eric Velasquez Illustration by Eric Velasquez

sept. sept. 29, 29, 2018 2018 || bell bell school, school, chappaqua chappaqua || 10-4 10-4 pm pm @chappaquabookfestival @chappaquabookfestival

Westchester Family | September 2018

ccbfestival.org ccbfestival.org

Calendar

September

By Andrea White

The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds headline a weekend of amazing aerial displays at the New York Air Show.

New York Air Show It’s a spectacular show in the sky! Watch the astonishing skills of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the West Point Parachute Team and more of the nation’s top military and civilian performers. 9am-5pm Sept. 15 and 16. For all ages. General Admission: $21.50 adults, $10.50 children 6-12, children under 6 free. Reservations required. Stewart International Airport, 1180 1st St., New Windsor. N.Y. 877-766-8158. airshowny.com.

New York Air Show

Calendar What’s Inside Editor’s Pick: Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival �� 42 Editor’s Pick: Drop-In Caly Class ��44 Festival Fun ��46 #AnimalEncounters ��48 Creative Crafts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 City Picks �� 51

September 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

Calendar September //

1 Saturday

✪ Albino Alligator. See a rare “great white of the wetlands” - an 8-foot albino alligator - in a special shaded enclosure out on the riverfront courtyard. Daily, 10am-6pm; until Sept. 3. Free with admission. $24.95 adults, $17.95 children 3-12, children under 3 free. Reservations not required. The Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk, Conn. 203-8520700. maritimeaquarium.org.

✪ CORNucopia. See Festival Fun page 46.

✪ Civil War Weekend. Witness re-enactments of standard Civil War tactics and troop movements. Stroll through Federal and Confederate camps, meet and talk with re-enactors dressed as troops and civilians and shop at Sutler’s Row. 10am-5pm today; 10am-4pm Sept. 2. For all ages. $17 adults, $12 children 4-12, children under 4 free. Reservations required. Museum Village, 1010 State Rte. 17M, Monroe. 845-7828248. museumvillage.org.

✪ Family Art Project: Painting Outdoors with Elizabeth, Susie and Harriet. See Creative Crafts page 50.

● ● Family Studio Science Projects. Mark the Equinox with activities that explore solar wind, the nature of sunlight and the magnetic qualities of the sun. Look through a solar telescope, weather permitting. Saturdays,

Courtesy Photo

You won’t believe your eyes when iLuminate lights up the stage at the Palace Theatre in Stamford on Sept. 14. 1-4pm, until Sept. 29. Recommended for ages 8 and up. Free with Museum admission. $7 adults, $4 children 3-18, children under 3 free. Reservations not required. Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Ave., Yonkers. 914963-4550. hrm.org.

sion. Reservations not required. Westchester Children’s Museum, 100 Playland Pkwy., Rye. 914-4215050. discoverwcm.org.

● ● Free Crafts for Kids. See Creative Crafts page 50.

✪ Sea Turtle Nursery. See ● Field Goal Game Kids’

#AnimalEncounters page 48.

Workshop. See Creative Crafts page 50.

● ● ● ✪ Stuffed Animal

✪ First Saturday Art Workshop. Drop in for a handson art workshop led by an arts and crafts specialist. 11am-1pm. Free with $7 museum admis-

CARE-ium. Diagnosis: adorable! Kids pretend to use the tools of real veterinarians to care for, diagnose and treat plush-animal patients. Children can bring their own plush animals into the ex-

Look for our complete calendar of events and activities online at WestchesterFamily.com.

Calendar Submissions For Print: • Send to calendar@westchesterfamily.com. Include: Dates, times, location, address, event description, ages, cost, phone, website. • Information to be considered for the October 2018 calendar must reach us by August 31, 2018.

For Online Calendar: • Visit WestchesterFamily.com. Click the “Post Your Own Event” link beneath the calendar image on our home page and submit your event. Online postings appear approximately 48 hours after submission.

Please call ahead to confirm dates, times and locations of all events.

Westchester Family | September 2018

hibit, although certain “tests” only work with toys provided by the Aquarium. Daily, 10am-6pm; until Sept. 3. Included with admission. $24.95 adults, $17.95 children 3-12, children under 3 free. Reservations not required. The Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk, Conn. 203-852-0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

✪ West Point Labor Day Celebration. Put an exclamation point on summer at this annual favorite. Featuring music by the West Point Concert Band, Hellcats and the Benny Havens Band, the night is topped

Key to suggested ages

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Calendar September // off with a performance of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, complete with live cannon fire. Rain date is Sept. 2. 7:30-9:30pm. For all ages. Reservations not required. Trophy Point Amphitheatre, 117 Washington Rd., West Point. 845-938-2617. westpointband.army.mil.

✪ “Theatre of Nature.” Enjoy a quiet, picturesque walk or hike and take in some works of art, too! “Theatre of Nature” in the Art Gallery at The Preserve features metal sculptures, fire paintings and collages by artist Lubomir Tomaszewski. Daily, 9am-4:30pm; until Sept. 16. For all ages. Reservations not required. Rockefeller State Park Preserve, 125 Phelps Way, Pleasantville. 914-631-1470. parks.ny.gov/ parks/59/details.aspx.

E d ito r ’s Pi ck

2 Sunday

✪ Farmers’ Market. Browse goods from over 20 unique vendors. Shop and eat local! Sundays, 9:30am-2:30pm, until Nov. 18. For all ages. Reservations not required. Muscoot Farm, 51 Rte. 100, Katonah. 914-864-7286. muscootfarm.org.

Courtesy photo

Meet popular authors and find a new book (or books) to love at the Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival on Sept. 29.

Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival

✪ New York Renaissance

✪ Celebrate the wonder of books! Meet more than 90 popular

Faire. Hear ye, hear ye! Travel back in time to a beautiful 16th century English village! With kidfriendly shows, crafts, games and tempting treats, there’s something for everyone. Check website for stage schedules. Saturdays and Sundays, 10am-7pm, until Sept. 30. Also open Labor Day. For all ages. $29.95 adults, $13 children 5-12, children under 5 free. Reservations required. 600 Rt. 17A, Tuxedo. 845-351-5171. renfair. com/ny.

authors, listen to readings and get books signed. It’s a day of kid-friendly activities and entertainment, plus food trucks, a bake sale and the Bubble Bus. Rain or shine. 10am-4pm Sept. 29. For all ages. FREE. Reservations not required. Bell Middle School, 50 Senter St., Chappaqua. 914-263-5566. ccbfestival.org.

✪ PepsiCo Sculpture Gardens. Art and nature come together on the grounds of PepsiCo’s corporate headquarters. Explore the sculpture collection consisting of works by major twentieth century artists, plus enjoy the gardens, which are an art form in their own right. Saturdays and Sundays, 10am4pm, until Oct. 31. For all ages. Reservations not required. PepsiCo Sculpture Gardens, 700 Anderson Hill Rd., Purchase. 914253-3150. pepsico.com/sculpturegardens. ● ● Planetarium Show: Habitat Earth. From colonies of tiny microbes to massive whales to humans, Habitat Earth shows what it means to live in a world connected by vastly different forms of life. Saturdays and Sundays, 3:30pm, until Sept. 30.

For ages 8 and up. $4 adults, $2 children 3-18, children under 3 free. Reservations not required. Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Ave., Yonkers. 914-963-4550. hrm.org.

✪ Roll & Create Abstract Art. Play a game of chance! Using a key, roll one die to find the number and roll another die to find the color. Match the color and number to find the pattern to add to the Museum’s community mural. Saturdays and Sundays, 1-4pm, until Sept. 30. For all ages. Free with Museum admission. $7 adults, $4 children 3-18, children under 3 free. Reservations not required. Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Ave., Yonkers. 914963-4550. hrm.org.

3 Monday

✪ Holiday Monday. Spend Labor Day at Wave Hill. Explore the beautiful 28-acre public garden and cultural center overlooking the Hudson River and Palisades. 9am-5:30pm. For all ages. $8 adults, $2 children 6-18,

Westchester Family | September 2018

children under 6 free. Reservations not required. Wave Hill, W. 249th St. and Independence Ave., Bronx. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

✪ Monday Opening. The New York Botanical Garden is open to visitors on this holiday Monday. Explore all that the world-famous 250-acre landscape has to offer, including kid-friendly activities in the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden inspired by the exhibition “Georgia O’Keeffe: Visions of Hawai’i.” 10am-6pm. For all ages. All-Garden Pass: $28 adults, $12 children 2-12, children under 2 free. Reservations not required. New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd. at Fordham Rd., Bronx. 718-817-8700. nybg.org.

● ● Storytime with Mr. Ben. A weekly story session featuring songs and crafts. Mondays, 4pm. Recommended for ages 1-5, but all are welcome. Reservations not required. Barnes & Noble, 3089 E. Main St., Mohegan Lake. 914-528-6275. stores.barnesandnoble.com/store/2897.

4 Tuesday

✪ Alamo For All. A sensoryfriendly movie program for young families and guests with special needs. These shows have no age restrictions (infants welcome), talking and noise are allowed, guests can move around, lights are turned up, sound is turned down and adaptive technology is welcome. Check website for specific movies and schedules. Tuesdays, shows before 2pm. For all ages. $9. Reservations required. Alamo Drafthouse, 2548 Central Park Ave., Yonkers. 914-226-3082. drafthouse.com/theater/yonkers.

● ● Little Playtimes. Have a LEGO® play date! Little ones build their curiosity with LEGO® bricks and special activities while parents mingle together. Check website for activity schedule. Tuesdays, 10am-2pm, today Sept. 25. For ages 2-5. $24 for an adult and child, children 2 and under free. Reservations not required. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester, 39 Fitzgerald St., Yonkers. 866-243-0770. westchester. legolanddiscoverycenter.com. ● Toddlers’ Tuesday Morning Storytime. Join Barnes & Noble booksellers for a story and coloring activity every week in the Children’s Department. Tuesdays, 11am, today - Sept. 25. For toddlers. Reservations not required. Barnes & Noble, 2614 Central Park Ave., Yonkers. 914771-6400. stores.barnesandnoble. com/store/2889.

â&#x2014;? â&#x2014;? Wear Your Baby Fitness Class. Socialize and exercise with other moms and their little ones. The class starts at Lil Chameleon, then heads to a nearby park (strollers welcome). The choose-your-own-intensity level class is for anyone at any fitness level. Tuesdays, 10:4511:30am, today - Sept. 25. For moms with babies 24 months and under. $20 per session. Reservations required. Lil Chameleon, 29 Elm St., Tuckahoe. 914-346-5148. lilchameleon.com.

5 Wednesday

â&#x153;Ş Blacklighting for Moths. Spend an end-ofsummer evening at Cliffdale Farm with Charlie Roberto to explore the world of moths and other night creatures. 7:30-9pm. For all ages. Pre-registration required. Teatownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cliffdale Farm, Teatown Rd., Croton. 914-762-2912 x110. teatown.org.

â&#x2014;? â&#x2014;? â&#x153;Ş Flamenco in the Courtyard. Enjoy a 45-minute concert featuring the characteristic dance and song of Spain. Then, take a tour of the Mediterraneanstyle Rosen House. Optional buffet lunch offered, inspired by Spanish cuisine. 11am. For all ages. $56 concert and lunch, $25 concert only. Reservations required. Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, 149 Girdle Ridge Rd., Katonah. 914-232-1252. caramoor. org.

â&#x2014;? â&#x2014;? Itsy Bitsy Playgroup. Time to get social - for parents and little ones! Connect with others over the joys and bumps of parenthood while engaging your child in a group setting through music, motor play and story time. 10:30-11:30am today and Sept. 12, 26. For parents of infants and toddlers. Reservations not required. Temple Sholom, 300 E. Putnam Ave., Greenwich, Conn. 203-869-7191. templesholom. com.

â&#x2014;? Young Discoverers. Stimulate curious minds at this weekly

science-based â&#x20AC;&#x153;drop-inâ&#x20AC;? program. Simple experiments and craft projects add to the excitement of learning something new. Every month features a new theme. Wednesdays, 11-11:30am. For ages 2-5. Free with $7 admission. Reservations not required. Westchester Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum, 100 Playland Pkwy., Rye. 914-421-5050. discoverwcm.org.

6 Thursday

â&#x2014;? Chloeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Baby Gym. Learn fun and useful ways to play with your little one in babyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first gym class! Enjoy music, movement games, sensory exploration and play experiences designed with babyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specific developmental milestones in mind. Thursdays, 11-11:45am, today - Sept. 27. For babies 2-9 months. $20 per class. Pre-registration required. Lil Chameleon, 29 Elm St., Tuckahoe. 914-346-5148. lilchameleon.com.

THEATRE

THIS OCTOBER

SUN, OCT 14, 2018 @ 11AM & 1:30PM Cailin wants a puppy for her 10th birthday - but is she responsible enough to take care of one? Find out in this heartwarming musical. Lyrics by Jeff Eisenberg, Book by Bruce J. Robinson, and directed by Rachel Black Spaulding. Ages 4-8

THE REAL WICKED WITCHES OF HALLOWEEN HILLS SUN, OCT 28, 2018 @ 11AM & 1:30PM A funny oneâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;hour family musical filled with loveable witches and Halloween goblins by Broadwayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s John Treacy Egan and Robert Hager. Ages 5-10.

FOR TICKETS AND MORE INFO

EMELIN.ORG | 914.698.0098

â&#x2014;? Museum Minis. Meet up in Toddler Beach for songs, movement, stories and plenty of fun. Thursdays, 10:30-11am. For ages 18-24 months. Free with $7 museum admission. Reservations not required. Westchester Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum, 100 Playland Pkwy., Rye. 914-421-5050. discoverwcm.org. â&#x2014;? â&#x2014;? Tunes for Tots. Nurture your toddlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love of books through music, movement and instruments while helping to develop their language, motor and social skills. 10am today and Sept. 20. Recommended for infants and toddlers. Reservations not required. Rye Free Reading Room, 1061 Boston Post Rd., Rye. 914-967-0480. ryelibrary.org.

7 Friday

â&#x2014;? â&#x2014;? Exploring Play. Every month features a new theme brought to life for young children through creative and fun movement activities, song, story and a take home project for all. Fridays, 11-11:30am. Ages 2-4. Free with $7 museum admission. Reservations not required. Westchester

Sunday, September 16, 2018 14th Annual Go The Distance Walk and Family Fun Day EHQHÄ&#x;WLQJ 0DULD )DUHUL &KLOGUHQĹ&#x201A;V +RVSLWDO D PHPEHU RI WKH :HVWFKHVWHU 0HGLFDO &HQWHU +HDOWK 1HWZRUN :0&+HDOWK

Free event! Free food! Free parking! Registration: 8:30 a.m., Macy Oval Rain or shine Go The Distance! Register! Form a fundraising team! 914.493.2575 Events.WestchesterMedicalCenter.com/GTD18

September 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

Calendar September // Children’s Museum, 100 Playland Pkwy., Rye. 914-421-5050. discoverwcm.org.

with a special craft. This month’s theme is “Clay Creations.” 9:3011:30am. For all ages. $11. Preregistration required. Boscobel House and Gardens, 1601 Rte. 9D, Garrison. 914-265-3638. boscobel. org.

E d ito r ’s Pi ck

● ● Glow in the Park. Enjoy a climb in glow attire while the park is aglow by lights in the trees, all at a special discounted rate. Glow necklaces, face paint and more are provided. 6-11pm. For ages 7 and up. $39. Reservations required. Boundless Adventures, 735 Anderson Hill Rd., Purchase. 914-893-4550. boundlessadventures.net/ny-park.

✪ Family Art Project: Plant

✪ Norwalk Oyster Festival. See Festival Fun page 46.

✪ Pajama Night! Wear your pjs and play late at The Westchester Children’s Museum. On the first Friday of every month, there’s extra time to explore, with full access to activities and exhibits. 10am-8pm. For all ages. Free with $7 museum admission. Reservations not required. Westchester Children’s Museum, 100 Playland Pkwy., Rye. 914-4215050. discoverwcm.org.

● ● Rhyme Time by the Hudson. Joyful learning through nursery rhymes, songs, parachute play and storytelling that’s sure to spark your little one’s curiosity and imagination. 9:30-10:15am today and Sept. 14, 21. For ages 1-4 with caregiver. Pay-what-you-wish admission. Registration requested. Boscobel House and Gardens, 1601 Rte. 9D, Garrison. 914-265-3638. boscobel. org.

✪ Tours for Tots. Explore amazing contemporary sculpture and enjoy breathtaking views of the Hudson River during these family-friendly tours with staff from the Hudson Valley Center for Contemporary Art. Tours start at the entrance to Peekskill Landing Park, weather permitting. 10:30am today and Sept. 15. For all ages. $15. Children under 8 free. Pre-registration required. Peekskill Landing Park, Near MetroNorth Station, Peekskill. 914-7880100. hvcca.org.

Courtesy photo

Try your hands at clay projects with drop-in classes on Saturdays at the Clay Art Center in Port Chester.

Drop-In Clay Class ● ● ✪ Play with clay while spending quality time together as a family. Professional ceramic artists guide these themed weekly hand-building projects. No previous experience necessary! Projects are glazed and fired and available for pick up two to three weeks after class. Saturdays, 1:30-3:30pm, beginning Sept. 15. Ages 5 and up. Children under 12 must attend with a guardian enrolled in the class. $30 adults, $20 children 12 and under. Space is limited. Spaces go on sale at the front desk at 10am the day of class. Clay Art Center, 40 Beech St., Port Chester. 914-937-2047. clayartcenter.org.

✪ Yorktown Grange Fair. A true country fair complete with livestock shows, great entertainment, rides, produce and flower exhibits and delicious food. 4-11pm today; 10am-11pm Sept. 8; 10am-7pm Sept. 9. For all ages. $8 adults, $5 children 2-11, children under 2 free. Reservations not required. Yorktown Grange Fairgrounds, 99 Moseman Ave., Yorktown Heights. 914-962-3900. yorktowngrangefair.org.

8 Saturday

✪ Aquarium Yoga. Practice slow flow yoga in the serene environment in front of the big sharks, before the Aquarium opens. All levels welcome. Take your own mat, if possible. 8:30-9:45am. For all ages. $25. Reservations strongly recommended. The

Westchester Family | September 2018

Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk, Conn. 203-852-0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

● ● Baby Sign Language. It’s never too early to start communicating with your little one. This musical class uses songs, stories, games and activities to teach signs from American Sign Language in a way that is fun and easy. Saturdays, 9:45-10:30am, today - Sept. 29. For ages 3 and under. $20 per class. Pre-registration required. Lil Chameleon, 29 Elm St., Tuckahoe. 914-346-5148. lilchameleon.com.

✪ Bring the Kids: Second Saturdays. Enjoy a familyfocused tour of the Historic House Museum with hands-on activities. Then, take a break with a snack and bring the memories home

Morphology. Observe living specimens of plants, fruits and flowers up close, then make drawings inspired by their shape, size and structure. Use watercolor pencils and paints to illustrate your plant or combine it with collaged plant images. 10am-1pm today and Sept. 9. For all ages. Free with admission. $8 adults, $2 children 6-18, children under 6 free. Admission is free until noon today. Reservations not required. Wave Hill, W. 249th St. and Independence Ave., Bronx. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

● Family Studio Art Projects. Create an abstract river scene. Saturdays and Sundays, 1-4pm, until Sept. 30. Recommended for ages 5-8. Free with Museum admission. $7 adults, $4 children 3-18, children under 3 free. Reservations not required. Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Ave., Yonkers. 914-963-4550. hrm.org.

✪ Play2Learn Festival. Who says play is just for fun? Get busy with over 40 hands-on activities designed to show kids (and their parents!) how play can be a learning experience. Plus, live music, food, entertainment and games! 11am-3pm Sept. 8. For all ages. Reservations not required. Harrison Public Library, 2 Bruce Ave., Harrison. 914-835-0324. harrisonpl.org. ● Rhyme & Read. Get a head start on reading skills through this innovative program featuring nursery rhymes set to song. Support materials include instructions in both English and Spanish. 11-11:30am today and Sept. 15. For ages 2-5. Free with $7 museum admission. Space is limited. Firstcome, first-served. Westchester

SKI - SNOWBOARD - TENNIS - SWIM - SKATEBOARDS

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum, 100 Playland Pkwy., Rye. 914-421-5050. discoverwcm.org.

under 6 free. Reservations not required. Wave Hill, W. 249th St. and Independence Ave., Bronx. 718549-3200. wavehill.org.

â&#x2014;? â&#x153;Ş River Explorers. Whet your appetite for nature and get wet in the Hudson at these hands-on programs for curious kids! Begin with nature-themed lessons and craft activities, then suit up for family seining (fishing with a net) in the river. Saturdays, 11am-noon & 1-3pm, today - Sept. 29. For ages 5-12. Pre-registration required. Center for the Urban River at Beczak, 35 Alexander St., Yonkers. 914-377-1900. centerfortheurbanriver.org.

â&#x153;Ş Family Tour: Glenview.

â&#x153;Ş StoryWalkâ&#x201E;˘ Opening Day. Read the illustrated childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s story, Teeny, Tiny, Toady by Jill Esbaum, and look for clues about these special animals as you stroll along the meadow trail. At 11am and 1pm, take a guided walk along the StoryWalkâ&#x201E;˘ Trail and meet one of the animals from the book. 10am-4pm. For all ages. Included with Grasshopper Grove Admission. $5 adults and children 2 and up, children under 2 free. Reservations not required. Hudson Highlands Nature Museum Outdoor Discovery Center, Muser Dr. across from 174 Angola Rd., Cornwall. 845534-5506. hhnm.org.

â&#x153;Ş Make a Splash! Play with

9 Sunday

â&#x153;Ş Bicycle Sundays. Have a wheel-y fun time during this beloved Westchester tradition! Bike, walk or jog a 13.1-mile loop of the Bronx River Parkway thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s traffic-free. 10am-2pm today and Sept. 16, 23, 30. For all ages. Reservations not required. Bronx River Parkway, From White Plains to Yonkers. 914-231-4600. thewpf.org/programs/bicyclesundays.

â&#x2014;? â&#x2014;? Family Nature Walk. Join naturalist and educator Gabriel Willow on a familyfriendly walk through the gardens or woodlands. Severe weather cancels. 1pm. Ages 6 and up with an adult. Free with admission. $8 adults, $2 children 6-18, children

Explore the shapes and patterns in the Hudson River Museumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic home, Glenview, and learn about its original residents, the Trevor Family. 2pm. Recommended for ages 3 and up. Free with Museum admission. $7 adults, $4 children 3-18, children under 3 free. Reservations not required. Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Ave., Yonkers. 914963-4550. hrm.org.

movement and gesture to create an abstract expressionist drip painting in the style of Jackson Pollock using an assortment of brushes and a large canvas. 1:30-3pm. For all ages. Free with Museum admission. $7 adults, $4 children 3-18, children under 3 free. Reservations not required. Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Ave., Yonkers. 914-963-4550. hrm.org.

â&#x2014;? Science Sunday. Drop in for hands-on science exploration, with a different theme every month. Check website for time. Recommended for ages 7 and up. Free with $7 museum admission. Reservations not required. Westchester Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum, 100 Playland Pkwy., Rye. 914-4215050. discoverwcm.org.

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10 Monday

â&#x2014;? â&#x2014;? Bilingual Storytime. Fun stories, songs and rhymes in English and Spanish. Mondays, 11-11:30am, today - Sept. 24. For ages 1-5. Reservations not required. Yonkers Public Library - Riverfront Branch, 1 Larkin Ctr., Yonkers. 914-375-7965. ypl.org/ riverfront.

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White Plains, NY

355 Mamaroneck Ave (914) 948-2995

Stamford, CT

350 Bedford St. (203) 324-2200

Bedford Hills, NY 532 N. Bedford Rd. (914) 244-8960

White Plains, NY

373 Mamaroneck Ave (914) 948-5111

September 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

● ● Mommy Meetup. Meet other moms, socialize, have a snack and let your lil one play! Mondays, 10-11:30am, today Oct. 1. For moms with children ages 3 and under. $5. Advance reservations recommended. Lil Chameleon, 29 Elm St., Tuckahoe. 914-346-5148. lilchameleon.com. ● ● Mother Goose Time. Rhymes, songs and stories that encourage early literacy skills for the littlest library-goer. At 11:30am, age-appropriate toys are brought out for a half-hour playtime encouraging socialization skills. Mondays, 11am-noon, today - Sept. 24. For children up to 24 months with caregiver. Tickets are given out on a first-come, first-served basis 30 minutes before the start of program. White Plains Public Library, 100 Martine Ave., White Plains. 914-422-1476. whiteplainslibrary.org.

Festival Fun

Calendar September //

11 Tuesday

✪ Dig! Plant! Grow!: The Three Sisters. Learn more about the Three Sisters - corn, beans and squash - and the Native Americans who grew them, the Lenape. Make your own cornhusk doll, grind corn, sort beans and identify fun and interesting squash fruits and seeds. Tuesdays - Saturdays, 1:30-5:30pm, Sundays, 10am-5:30pm, today - Oct. 5. For all ages. Included in All-Garden Pass. Weekdays: $23 adults, $10 children 2-12; Weekends: $28 adults, $12 children 2-12; children under 2 free. Reservations not required. New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd. at Fordham Rd., Bronx. 718-817-8700. nybg.org.

12 Wednesday

● ● Graham Clarke.

Rock out with children’s musician Graham Clarke and his guitar! Kids love Graham’s fun songs and his silly humor. 10am today and Sept. 26. Recommended for toddlers and preschoolers. Reservations not required. Bronxville Public Library, 201 Pondfield Rd., Bronxville. 914-337-7680. bronxvillelibrary.org.

Tom Nycz for Historic Hudson Valley

Run through a maze of corn at Philipsburg Manor’s annual CORNucopia from Sept. 1-3.

✪ Cider and Donut Festival. Kick

✪ Norwalk Oyster Festival. The

off the fall season in Armonk at this oldfashioned country shindig. Enjoy fresh donuts and apple cider, live music, carnival rides, bouncy houses, face painting, arts and crafts, a pie-eating contest and more. 10am Sept. 23. For all ages. Free admission. Fee for carnival rides and food. Reservations not required. Wampus Brook Park, Maple Ave., Armonk. 914-273-5172. armonkchamberofcommerce.com/Ciderand-Donuts-Festival.

world is your oyster at this fun festival for the whole family. Enjoy music, a Ferris wheel, harbor cruises, arts and crafts, food and a Kids’ Cove with rides, games and other child-centered live entertainment. Sunday is Family Day with special family and children’s packages for entrance, rides and meals. 6-11pm Sept. 7; 11am-8pm Sept. 8 and 9. For all ages. $12 adults, $5 children 5-12, children under 5 free. Reservations required. Veteran’s Memorial Park, Seaview Ave., Norwalk, Conn. 203-838-9444. seaport. org.

✪ CORNucopia. It’s not corn-y to get excited for this fun festival! Challenge yourself in a corn maze, play games, kick up your heels during an English country dance, listen to live bluegrass and folk music and indulge in sweet corn ice cream. 10am-5pm Sept. 1 - Sept. 3. For all ages. $16 adults, $8 children 3-17, children under 3 free. $2 per ticket surcharge for onsite and phone purchases. Reservations required. Philipsburg Manor, 381 N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow. 914-6318200. hudsonvalley.org.

✪ In Mo Yang. Listen to the beautiful music of Korean violinist In Mo Yang in a 45-minute performance Then, tour the historic Mediterranean-style Rosen House. Optional buffet lunch served. 11am. For all ages. $56 concert and lunch, $25 concert only. Reservations required. Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, 149 Girdle Ridge Rd., Katonah. 914-232-1252. caramoor.org.

Westchester Family | September 2018

✪ Yonkers Riverfest. Join thousands at this celebration of community. There’s something for everyone - a children’s carnival with games and activities, inflatable rides, a Ferris wheel, live music on three stages, art exhibits, free kayaking, craft and food vendors and more. Rain or shine. Noon-7pm Sept. 15. For all ages. FREE. Reservations not required. Downtown Yonkers Waterfront. yonkersriverfest.org.

✖ Life Along the Hudson: A Photographic Journey. Gain a new appreciation for the Hudson River. Photographer Joseph Squillante presents his life’s work and shares his knowledge on this important natural resource. 7-9pm. For adults. Reservations not required. Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Rd., Scarsdale. 914-723-3470. greenburghnaturecenter.org.

13 Thursday

● ● Tales for Tots. Simple picture books, finger plays, felt stories and traditional nursery rhymes encourage language development and instill a love of stories in children who are learning to talk. 10am today and Sept. 27. Recommended for infants & toddlers. Reservations not required. Rye Free Reading

Stepping Stones Museum for Children presents Room, 1061 Boston Post Rd., Rye. 914-967-0480. ryelibrary.org.

14 Friday

✪ Crafts at Lyndhurst. A full day art and shopping experience for the entire family including interactive kids’ activities, delicious foods, hands-on demonstrations and more than 300 craftspeople selling handmade creations. Event takes place under tents. Rain or shine. 10am-5pm today and Sept. 16; 10am-6pm Sept. 15. For all ages. $12 adults, $4 children 6-16, children under 6 free. Tickets go on sale onsite on the day of the event. Reservations not required. Lyndhurst, 635 S. Broadway, Tarrytown. 845-331-7900. artrider.com.

✪ Food Truck Fridays & More! Come hungry for food from popular New York and Connecticut food trucks. Plus, enjoy games and a host of live music performers. 5-9pm. For all ages. Reservations not required. 56 Westchester Ave., Pound Ridge. poundridgepartnership.org.

● ● ● Intro to Spanish Through Music. From “Hola” to “Caballo,” get your little one familiar with Spanish through music, puppets and play. Topics covered over eight weeks include greetings, body parts, colors and animals. Fridays, 10:30-11:15am, today - Nov. 2. For ages 2 months-4 years. $25 per class. Pre-registration required. Lil Chameleon, 29 Elm St., Tuckahoe. 914-346-5148. lilchameleon.com. ● ● Music and Dance with Flor. Get grooving with songs, music and dance with Flor Bromley, bilingual recording artist, singer/songwriter, storyteller and puppeteer! Fridays, 9:45-10:15am, today - Oct. 5. For ages 1-4. $20 per class. Reservations required. Lil Chameleon, 29 Elm St., Tuckahoe. 914-346-5148. lilchameleon. com.

A hilariously-special exhibit that encourages learning through laughter and lets you embrace your inner zany genius.

✪ SeptemberFest. It’s Mount Kisco’s biggest block party! Come out for a carnival, Big Top Entertainment, a food court and sidewalk sales right in the middle of the vibrant downtown. 5-10pm today; 11am-10pm Sept. 15; 11am-6pm Sept. 16. For all ages. Reservations not required. N. Main St., Mount Kisco. 914-6667525. mtkiscochamber.com. ✪ iLuminate. Bask in the glow of this illuminating show! Dancers in electrified glow-in-the-dark suits perform dynamic routines and illusions on a darkened stage, telling a story of adventure and romance in an array of dance styles. 8pm. Recommended for ages 4 and up. $19.80-$42. Reservations required. The Palace Theatre, 61 Atlantic St., Stamford, Conn. 203-325-4466. palacestamford.org.

Plan your visit today! steppingstonesmuseum.org 203 899 0606 Sponsored in part by

First County Bank The KLUTZ Amazingly Immature exhibit was created by The Children’s Museum of Houston with cooperation from KLUTZ.

$5 off

Each general admission up to four admissions. Not to be combined with any other offers. Coupon must be presented. Expires 10/31/18 CODE: WCF

Norwalk, CT

15 Saturday

● ● ✪ Drop-In Clay Class. See Editor’s Pick page 44.

✪ Family Art Project: In the Path of Monarch Butterflies. With bold, painterly marks, make large-scale, printed butterflies with gorgeous, orange-red-black patterned wings. Participate in a group installation on the Conifer Slope, displaying milkweed and butterfly prints that show the inspiring journey of the monarch butterfly. 10am-1pm today and Sept. 16. For all ages. Free with admission. $8 adults, $2 children 6-18, children under 6 free. Admission is free until noon today. Reservations not required. Wave Hill, W. 249th St. and Independence Ave., Bronx. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

● Open Auditions. Calling all aspiring middle school actors! Come out to open

SPEC A L EXHIB GRA NID IT SATURD O AY, SEPPENING TEMBE R

auditions for Theater O’s fall play, offering experiences in all aspects of theater. 6-9pm today; 3-6pm Sept. 15. For 6th-8th graders. Registration required. Theater O, 25 State St., Ossining. 914-487-4322. theatero.org.

✪ International Red Panda

“

INGENIOUS BUBBLE WIZARDRY.” -THE NEW YORKER

Telecharge.com or 212.239.6200

For groups or birthdays call 866.642.9849

New World Stages 340 W. 50th St.

GazillionBubbleShow.com G ill llii B bbl Sh

Day. Visit Rochan, an adorable

September 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

#AnimalEncounters

Calendar September // Red Panda, and his companion, Meri in their fabulous new habitat. Listen to talks on these adorable animals by the Zoo’s Education staff. 9am-4pm. For all ages. $15 adults, $12 children 3-11, children under 3 free. Reservations not required. Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo, 1875 Noble Ave., Bridgeport, Conn. 203-394-6565. beardsleyzoo.org.

✪ Kids Fest: Stages in the Square. See City Picks page 51.

✪ Kids in the Kitchen: Financiers con Frutta Fresca. A recipe for fun! At this hands-on culinary class, kids make little French cakes and embellish them with fresh fruit. 12:30pm. For all ages. $40 children; $65 adult and child; $40 per additional person. Pre-registration required. Westchester Italian Cultural Center, One Generoso Pope Pl., Tuckahoe. 914-771-8700. wiccny.org. Courtesy photo

Meet furry friends and learn all about the animal kingdom at the Greenburgh Nature Center on Sept. 23.

✪ Animal Forensics. In this fun and exciting program, children get closer to nature to give them a better understanding of the way the animal kingdom lives, eats and plays. 1-2pm Sept. 23. For all ages. $8. Reservations not required. Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Rd., Scarsdale. 914-7233470. greenburghnaturecenter.org.

✪ Pond Life. There is a lot happening in Teatown Lake as fall approaches. Dragonflies dart and zoom, turtles come up to bask and fish rise to the bait. The animals that you don’t see are just as interesting, so grab a net and get scooping! 11am-12:30pm Sept. 16. For all ages. $8. Pre-registration required. Teatown Lake Reservation, 1600 Spring Valley Rd., Ossining. 914-762-2912 x110. teatown.org.

✪ Sea Turtle Nursery. Visit Squirt, a rescued baby loggerhead sea turtle, before his yearlong stay at The Maritime Aquarium ends! Squirt has been staying in the Sea Turtle Nursery but returns to the ocean off North Carolina in October. Daily, 10am-6pm Sept. 1 - Sept. 3; 10am-5pm Sept. 4 Sept. 30. For all ages. Included with admission. $24.95 adults, $17.95 children 3-12, children under 3 free. Reservations not required. The Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk, Conn. 203-8520700. maritimeaquarium.org.

Westchester Family | September 2018

● Lactation and Pumping Workshop. A workshop with information and help for nursing moms who want to continue to breastfeed while spending time away from baby. Learn how to maximize milk expression, maintain supply, safely handle breast milk and more pro tips. 10:45am12:15pm. For mothers with babies under 6 months. $50. Pre-registration required. Lil Chameleon, 29 Elm St., Tuckahoe. 914-346-5148. lilchameleon.com.

✪ May We All Grow Up to Be Children. Childhood wonder and the loving bond between children and their “imaginary” friends are on display in this new exhibit featuring original illustrations by artist George H. Lewis. The artwork is from the forthcoming book Arthur and Bun-Bun: Adventures with Tut. Wednesdays - Sundays, 10am-4pm, today Nov. 26. For all ages. Free with $7 museum admission. Children 12 months and under free. Reservations not required. Westchester Children’s Museum, 100 Playland Pkwy., Rye. 914-421-5050. discoverwcm.org.

✪ New York Air Show. See page 39.

● ✪ Secrets in the Soil. Learn about all of the animals, big and small, that reside under the ground. Explore the subterranean habitats through experimentation and fun activities. 10am. Recommended for ages 5 and up. $10 adults, $7 children. Sameday admission to the Wildlife Education Center is free after paid attendance to this program. Reservations not required. Hudson Highlands Nature Museum Outdoor Discovery Center, Muser Dr. across from 174 Angola Rd., Cornwall. 845534-5506. hhnm.org.

✪ Yonkers Riverfest. See Festival Fun page 46.

16 Sunday

✪ 11th Annual OldFashioned Flea Market. Hunt for bargains and treasures including collectibles, clothing and toys. The museum is also open for $5 mini-tours. Plus, food trucks and a classic car show mean there’s something for everyone. 10am-5pm. For all ages. Reservations not required. Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum, 295 West Ave., Norwalk, Conn. 203-838-9799. lockwoodmathewsmansion.com.

● Butterfly Walk. A bevy of butterflies (and their caterpillars) animate Wave Hill’s gardens in early fall. Join naturalist Paul Keim for a short introduction to butterfly behavior, then head out for a walk to observe monarchs and other butterflies in the gardens. 1pm. For ages 10 and up with an adult. Free with admission. $8 adults, $2 children 6-18, children under 6 free. Reservations not required. Wave Hill, W. 249th St. and Independence Ave., Bronx. 718549-3200. wavehill.org.

✪ Go the Distance Walk and Family Fun Day. Get walking for a good cause! This event is the largest annual fundraiser for Maria Fareri Children’s

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Calendar September // Hospital at Westchester Medical Center. The morning includes a casual one-mile walk, plus familyfriendly activities such as face painting, bounce houses, carnival games and crafts. Rain or shine. 8:30am-noon. For all ages. Sign up on the website to raise funds for this event. Pre-registration required. Macy Oval adjacent to the Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, 100 Woods Rd., Valhalla. 914-493-2575. events.westchestermedicalcenter. com/GTD18.

18 Tuesday

● ● ● Nature Strollers. A unique one-hour hike for families with little ones, led by a Museum educator. Tuesdays, 9:30am, today - Nov. 6. For parents of babies, toddlers and young children. $5 per family. Reservations not required. Hudson Highlands Nature Museum Outdoor Discovery Center, Muser Dr. across from 174 Angola Rd., Cornwall. 845-534-5506. hhnm. org. Joshua Bright

counters page 4.

✪ Westchester Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Take the first step to a world without Alzheimer’s. Help the Westchester Walk Team raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. 9am. For all ages. Register online to raise money for this event. SUNY Purchase - West Lawn, 735 Anderson Hill Rd., Harrison. 914-253-6839. westchesterwalk.org.

✪ White Plains Jazz and Food Festival. An open-air celebration of music and international foods in downtown White Plains. Groove to the sounds of Samba, swing, soul, and of course, jazz. Noon-5:30pm. For all ages. Reservations not required. Mamaroneck Ave. at Main St., White Plains. 914-328-5166. wpbid.com/jazzfest.

17 Monday

✪ Just Add Water. Trace a path from desert to rain forest - and meet animals of those environments, such as tortoises, macaws, tamarins, a porcupine and skunk - in this new permanent exhibit. Daily, 10am-5pm. For all ages. Included with admission. $24.95 adults, $17.95 children 3-12, children under 3 free. Reservations not required. The Maritime Aquarium, 10 N. Water St., Norwalk, Conn. 203-852-0700. maritimeaquarium.org.

19 Wednesday

✪ Summer Geocache Challenge - Treasure Hunt. Enjoy a hike combined with the fun of a good old-fashioned treasure hunt. While you are geocaching (a real-world, outdoor treasure hunting game using GPSenabled devices), take some time and see all that the Preserve has to offer. Daily, sunrise to sunset; until Nov. 11. For all ages. Sign up for program online. Rockefeller State Park Preserve, 125 Phelps Way, Pleasantville. 914-631-1470. geocaching.com.

20 Thursday

✪ Washington Irving’s Sunnyside. See the charming estate of America’s “Founding Father of Literature” nestled along the Hudson riverbank. Hear about Washington Irving’s storied past and how he came to be known for characters from the Headless Horseman to Rip Van Winkle. Wednesdays - Fridays, 10am5pm, Saturdays and Sundays, 9:30am-5pm, until Sept. 30. Check website for tour times. For all ages. $12 adults, $6 children 3-17, children under 3 free. $2 per ticket surcharge for onsite and phone purchases. Reservations required. Washington Irving’s Sunnyside, 3 W. Sunnyside Ln., Tarrytown. 914-3666900. hudsonvalley.org.

21 Friday

● ● Auditions for Carole Alexis’ Nutcracker Dream. Be a part of The Nut-

Westchester Family | September 2018

Paint outdoors at beautiful Wave Hill during the Family Art Project on Sept. 1 and 2.

Creative Crafts

✪ Pond Life. See #AnimalEn-

✪ Family Art Project: Painting Outdoors with Elizabeth, Susie and Harriet. Follow the adventurous and passionate spirit of three trailblazing Hudson River School painters. Then relish the last days of summer in Wave Hill’s annual, outdoor painting project, using watercolor paint and pencils to translate what you see into shapes, tones and marks of light. 10am-1pm Sept. 1 and 2. For all ages. Admission is free all day Saturday; Free with admission on Sunday: $8 adults, $2 children 6-18, children under 6 free. Reservations not required. Wave Hill, W. 249th St. and Independence Ave., Bronx. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

● Field Goal Game Kids’ Workshop. A fun way to kick off football season! Build a field goal game and then test your aim. Once the game is built, customize it with paint and stickers. 9am-noon Sept. 1. Recommended for ages 5-12 with an adult. FREE. Pre-registration required. Home Depot stores in Yonkers, New Rochelle, Mt. Pleasant, Port Chester, West Nyack, Nanuet, and Stamford. homedepot.com. ● ● Free Crafts for Kids. Drop in and make a different craft every week. Materials and templates provided. Saturdays, 11am-3pm. For ages 3 and up. FREE. Reservations not required. Lakeshore Learning Store, 969A Central Park Ave., Scarsdale. 914-472-1820. lakeshorelearning.com.

cracker Dream, coming in December to the Emelin Theatre. Professional dancers from Ballet des Amériques perform the featured roles of the ballet. Additional roles are being cast by audition for kids with three or more years ballet training, with intermediate to advanced ballet technique, clean lines and the ability to take corrections and directions quickly.

5-8pm today; 10am-1:30pm Sept. 22. For ages 10-17. Pre-registration required. Emelin Theatre, 153 Library Ln., Mamaroneck. 646-7530457. emelin.org.

● ● Graham Clarke. Rock out with children’s musician Graham Clarke and his guitar! Kids love Graham’s fun songs and his silly humor. 10am today and Sept.

● Stroller Tours at KMA. These once-a-month conversational tours refresh your spirit and expand your mind. Enjoy a new topic every month followed by coffee and snacks. Crying babies welcome! 9:30-10:30am. For parents and caregivers with children under 18 months. Free with $10 admission. Reservations not required. Katonah Museum of Art, 134 Jay St., Katonah. 914-2329555. katonahmuseum.org.

22 Saturday

✪ Family Art Project: Bundle Dyeing and Happa Zome. Create botanical works of art featuring common herbs and garden flowers. Practice the technique of hapa zome, also known as plant pounding, and then bundle-dye silk handkerchiefs using simple, ecologically friendly processes. 10am-1pm today and Sept. 23. For all ages. Free with admission. $8 adults, $2 children 6-18, children under 6 free. Admission is free until noon today. Reservations not required. Wave Hill, W. 249th St. and Independence Ave., Bronx. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

✪ Good Deed of the Month Club. Meet in the Book Nook for a kindness-themed book reading and discussion followed by a good deed project. Club meets every fourth Saturday of the month. 11am-noon. For all ages. Free with $7 museum admission. Reservations not required. Westchester Children’s Museum, 100 Playland Pkwy., Rye. 914-4215050. discoverwcm.org.

✪ Museum Day Live! To celebrate Smithsonian Magazine’s Museum Day Live, the Hudson River Museum is offering free admission to all ticket holders

City Picks

28. Recommended for toddlers and preschoolers. Reservations not required. Room has a fire code, so early arrival is suggested. Rye Free Reading Room, 1061 Boston Post Rd., Rye. 914-967-0480. ryelibrary.org.

Daniel Avila, NYC Parks

Step back in time for Medieval fun, including a joust, at Fort Tryon Park on Sept. 30.

✪ Kids Fest: Stages in the Square. A family-friendly festival with three main stages featuring a diverse lineup of performing arts programming, including music, dance, theater, puppetry, magic and storytelling. 11am-3pm Sept. 15. Recommended for children 12 and under. FREE. Reservations not required. Madison Square Park, Between Fifth and Madison Avenues, from 23rd St. to 26th St. New York. 212-5207600. madisonsquarepark.org. ✪ Medieval Festival. Be transported back to the Middle Ages at this familyfriendly celebration featuring music, dance, juggling, old-style crafts and food. Meet up with costumed characters and watch an actual joust between knights on horseback. 11:30am-6pm Sept. 30. For all ages. FREE. Reservations not required. Fort Tryon Park, Between Riverside Dr., Broadway, Dyckman St. and W. 192nd St. New York. 212795-1600. whidc.org/festival/home.html.

✪ Sukkah Decorating Party. Help to bring the 92nd Street Y’s rooftop sukkah to life! Learn about the joyous festival of Sukkot, sing and create unique craft projects.

today. Other area museums are also participating. See website for complete list. Noon-5pm. For all ages. Reservations required. Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Ave., Yonkers. 914-963-4550. smithsonianmag.com/museumday.

Pizza lunch included. 11am Sept. 23. For all ages. $15. Reservations required. 92Y, 1395 Lexington Ave. at E. 91st St., Upper East Side, New York. 212-415-5500. 92y.org.

✪ Summer on the Hudson: Little Red Lighthouse Festival. Celebrate Manhattan’s only remaining lighthouse with readings of the classic children’s book, which bears its name. Plus, check out fishing clinics, live music, food and art vendors, Urban Park Ranger presentations and more. Noon-4pm Sept. 29. For all ages. FREE. Reservations not required. Little Red Lighthouse, Fort Washington Park; Under the George Washington Bridge, New York. 311. nycgovparks.org.

✪ Summer on the Hudson: West Side County Fair. Enjoy a full day of county fair magic in Manhattan with live bands, sideshow performers, aerialists, stilt walkers, carnival rides and games, cotton candy, food vendors and more. 1-6pm Sept. 9. Rain date is Sept. 16. For all ages. FREE. Reservations not required. Pier I, Riverside Park South; W. 70th St., Upper West Side, New York. 311. nycgovparks.org.

✪ PepsiCo Sculpture Gardens. See Sept. 2.

23 Sunday

✪ Animal Forensics. See #AnimalEncounters page 48.

● ● The Best of the 2018 New York International Children’s Film Festival: Kid Flicks One. A lively lineup of nine short films from around the world. Free handson activities upstairs in the Jane

September 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

Calendar September // Peck Gallery before and after the screening. Noon. Recommended for ages 3-7. $14 adults, $7.50 children 13 and under. Reservations required. Jacob Burns Film Center, 364 Manville Rd., Pleasantville. 914747-5555. burnsfilmcenter.org.

● ● The Best of the 2018 New York International Children’s Film Festival: Kid Flicks Two. A selection of nine clever, thought provoking short films from around the world that’s sure to inspire older kids to expand their horizons. Free hands-on activities upstairs in the Jane Peck Gallery before and after the screening. 1:30pm. Recommended for ages 8 and up. $14, $7.50 children 13 and under. Reservations required. Jacob Burns Film Center, 364 Manville Rd., Pleasantville. 914-747-5555. burnsfilmcenter.org.

✪ Cider and Donut Festival. See Festival Fun page 46.

✪ Fairy Homes and Gnome Homes. Nature’s friends need roofs over their heads! Using natural items found on the forest floor, construct a home for your favorite fairy or gnome to live in. 1-2pm. For all ages. $8. Pre-registration required. Teatown Lake Reservation, 1600 Spring Valley Rd., Ossining. 914-762-2912 x110. teatown.org.

an original soundtrack. Highlights include the Pumpkin Promenade, Pumpkin Zee Bridge, a jack-o’lantern Statue of Liberty and a functioning Pumpkin Carousel. 7-9:30pm today; 7-10pm Sept. 29; 7-9pm Sept. 30. For all ages. Friday & Saturday: $27 adults, $20 children 3-17; Sunday: $22 adults, $16 children 3-17; children under 3 free. $2 per ticket surcharge for onsite and phone purchases. Reservations required. Van Cortlandt Manor, 535 S. Riverside, Croton. 914-631-8200. hudsonvalley.org. Illustration by George H. Lewis

Get lost in the wonder of childhood with beautiful illustrations in a new artwork exhibit at the Westchester Children’s Museum. Argentina, Peru and more. Enjoy fashion shows, storytelling and food with a Latin flare. Noon-5pm. For all ages. $5 adults, $1 children in advance; $5 per person onsite. Reservations not required. Stepping Stones Museum for Children, 303 West Ave., Norwalk, Conn. 203-899-0606. steppingstonesmuseum.org.

✪ Sukkah Decorating Party. See City Picks page 51.

24 Monday

● ● Bilingual Storytime. See Sept. 10.

● ● Mommy Meetup. See

✪ JAY DAY! Hudson River

✪ Sabor Together. Savor the flavors, sights and sounds of Latin America. This colorful, multicultural festival features music and dance from Venezuela,

✪ Dig! Plant! Grow!: The Three Sisters. See Sept. 11.

✪ May We All Grow Up To Be Children. See Sept. 15.

● Young Discoverers. See Sept. 5.

27 Thursday

✪ Classic Tours with a

Sept. 10. Ramble. Celebrate American culture and traditions at this historic home in Rye. Enjoy live music, period dance performances, book signings and activities with children’s authors, face painting, pony rides, a petting zoo, house tours and more. 11am-3pm. For all ages. $40 per family, $10 per individual. Reservations required. Jay Heritage Center, 210 Boston Post Rd., Rye. 914-698-9275. jayheritagecenter.org.

26 Wednesday

● ● Mother Goose Time. See Sept. 10.

25 Tuesday

✪ Alamo For All. See Sept. 4. ● Stories, Songs & Surprises. Story time for preschoolers with a different theme every week. Tuesdays, 2-2:30pm, Sept. 7 - Sept. 28. For preschoolers with an adult. Reservations not required. Bedford Free Library, 32 Village Green, Bedford. 914-2343570. bedfordfreelibrary.org.

Westchester Family | September 2018

Halloween Twist. Lyndhurst is ready for the Halloween season! See the majestic vestibule and entrance hall, Jay Gould’s private office, the sumptuous Victorian dining room and more - all decorated with beautiful trimmings for Halloween. The second floor is not decorated but can be visited. Tours last approximately one hour. Thursdays - Mondays, 10am-4pm, today - Oct. 31. For all ages. $20 adults, $18 children 6-16, children under 6 free. Reservations required. Lyndhurst, 635 S. Broadway, Tarrytown. 914-6314481. lyndhurst.org.

28 Friday

✪ The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze. If it’s fall, it’s time for this blazing Westchester tradition! More than 7,000 jacko’-lanterns are lit up in dazzling displays, complete with sound effects, synchronized lighting and

✪ Play Days @ Jay. Pack a picnic and spend the afternoon exploring the six Discovery Centers at the Homestead’s historic buildings and visit the property’s chickens. Education staff lead a short hands-on activity. Fridays, Noon-2pm, until Oct. 26. For all ages. Reservations not required. John Jay Homestead, 400 Jay St., Katonah. 914-666-7004. johnjayhomestead.org.

29 Saturday

✪ Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival. See Editor’s Pick page 42.

● ● ✪ Drop-In Clay Class. See Editor’s Pick page 44.

✪ Family Art Project: Tiny Terrariums. Create your very own mini-terrarium in a recycled glass jar (provided or take your own). Craft a small world to nurture a little succulent bud through the winter. 10am-1pm today and Sept. 30. For all ages. Free with admission. $8 adults, $2 children 6-18, children under 6 free. Admission is free until noon today. Reservations not required. Wave Hill, W. 249th St. and Independence Ave., Bronx. 718-549-3200. wavehill.org.

✪ John Jay Homestead Farm Market. Purchase locally produced, healthy food and support local, sustainable agriculture. There’s musical entertainment, featured community organizations, demonstrations and workshops. Saturdays,

10am-2pm, until Oct. 27. For all ages. Reservations not required. John Jay Homestead, 400 Jay St., Katonah. 914-666-7004. johnjayhomestead.org.

required. Ronald McDonald House, 80 Woods Rd., Valhalla. 914-4936455. rmh-ghv.org.

✪ Medieval Festival. See City Picks page 51.

✪ New York Renaissance Faire. See Sept. 2.

✪ Summer on the Hudson: Little Red Lighthouse Festival. See City Picks page 51.

✪ Weekend Admission. With your one-day admission ticket, explore the farm at your own pace, meet the farmers and take part in activities led by educators. Dress appropriately for outdoors! Saturdays and Sundays, 10am-5pm. For all ages. $22 adults, $10 ages 2-15, children under 2 free. Reservations required. Tickets become available for purchase four weeks in advance. Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture, 630 Bedford Rd., Pocantico Hills. 914-366-6200. stonebarnscenter.org.

30 Sunday

✪ Bicycle Sundays. See

✪ Mural Unveiling Party. See the debut of a full-scale painted mural designed by local Westchester students as part of a contest. Enjoy live music, games, activities and food trucks. 1-4pm. For all ages. Reservations not required. Musical Conservatory of Westchester, 216 Central Ave., White Plains. 914-761-3900. musicconservatory.org. ✪ Ninjas of the Forest. Get to know the GNC’s resident owls and uncover the secrets of these mysterious night dwellers. Learn about their eating habits by dissecting owl pellets, then complete a bone puzzle to find out what was on the menu for dinner last night. 1-2pm. For all ages. $8. Reservations not required. Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Rd., Scarsdale. 914-723-3470. greenburghnaturecenter.org.

Sept. 9.

✪ Disney’s 101 Dalmatians KIDS. Based on the classic animated film, Disney’s 101 Dalmatians KIDS is a fur-raising adventure featuring Cruella De Vil and the most adorable heroes to set their paws onstage. Performed by young actors ages 6-12. 11am and 2pm. For ages 2 and up. $12-$16. Reservations required. Yorktown Stage, 1974 Commerce St., Yorktown Heights. 914-952-0606. yorktownstage.org.

✪ Traditional Tarantella Dances and Ritual Drumming. Feel the beat during a performance by Italian musician Alessandra Belloni. The percussionist specializes in Southern Italian tambourines combined with singing and dance. An art workshop follows the presentation. 1:30-3:30pm. For all ages. Reservations not required. Pelham Art Center, 155 Fifth Ave., Pelham. 914-738-2525. pelhamartcenter.org. ✪ Westchester Walk for

✪ Dylan J. Hoffman Memorial Walk & Family Fun Day. Take a walk around the Westchester Medical Center for a good cause, then enjoy activities including bounce houses, Teatown’s Birds of Prey, a slime tent, music and a barbecue. This event celebrates the life of Dylan J. Hoffman and benefits critically ill children and their families.11am. For all ages. $30 per family donation. Reservations

Apraxia. A family-friendly milelong walk followed by a magic show, carnival games and more, all to benefit Apraxia Kids, the leading organization dedicated to children with apraxia of speech (CAS) and their families. 9am. For all ages. $20 adults, $10 children. Register on walk website or onsite. Tibbetts Brook Park, 355 Midland Ave., Yonkers. community. apraxia-kids.org/westchesterwalk. _

September 2018 | WestchesterFamily.com

Last Bite //

In Honor of Grandparent’s Day, September 9

Hello Dolly: A Recipe from Nana’s Kitchen By Corinne Zola

“N

eeds a little more chocolate, don’t you think?” she says hopefully and with certainty. “Definitely,” I reply handing her the bag of chocolate morsels. We eat a few before my daughter carefully spreads a handful across the baking dish, already layered with graham crackers and coconut. “Even enough?” she asks. “Definitely.” I smile and hug her to my side. We’ve had this same conversation many times over the years as we bake our special treat together. It could very well be the same conversation I had with my own mom and she with her mom. We are making Hello Dolly bars, the delicious, chocolaty, grahamcrackery, brownie-like bars passed down from a recipe from my Nana Selma. A bite of a Hello Dolly bar immediately conjures feelings of childhood, both my own and of my kids. They taste like comfort and love. Nana made the bars for my mom and aunt when they were little and later my mom made them for my sisters and me. Nana passed her stained, handwritten index card of the recipe to my mother sometime in the late 1960’s when she got married and had her own children, and my mom later wrote it out for me when I had my kids. I thought that only my own family made these bars, that Nana had invented the recipe. My mom tells me now that the recipe for Hello Dolly bars was actually one of many shared between Nana’s friends in small Gloversville, N.Y. in the 40s and 50s when they were young mothers and homemakers. After Googling Hello Dolly, I was further surprised to learn that many families claim the Hello Dolly bar as an old family treat. They are alternately called Hello Dollies, Magic Cookies and Seven Layer Bars. It seems to be as much a mystery as to who originated the recipe, as is the odd name. Nana was baking the bars well before the 1964 hit Broadway musical of the same name, but perhaps the bars made people so happy that the name was changed to reflect the joy of the show. Nana Selma passed away in 2014 at the age of 97. I like to think that Nana would be thrilled to know that her personal recipe is so special to me. The bars remind me of the times when my family made the very

Westchester Family | September 2018

Callie Zola

Nana’s Hello Dolly Bars are a tribute to grandparents who feed us — body and soul.

long drive up the New York State Thruway to Gloversville for a visit. My sisters and I ran around her house with its funny shaped rooms and long hallways (perfect for pretend detectives to hunt crooks), peek through her make up drawer (you’ve never seen so much lipstick) and finally settle into her sunny family room for treats. “How’s this?” my daughter says as she carefully pours thick gooey condensed milk over the concoction. “Even enough?” “Perfect,” I answer, savoring the fun of baking together and wanting the moment to last forever. How to Make Nana’s Hello Dolly Bars The recipe is very easy to make with huge yummy rewards*. It is the perfect scratch recipe for little bakers just learning how to measure (all the measurements call for one cup of each ingredient); it doesn’t require mixing bowls so there isn’t a big mess, and it can be made with a variety of ingredients so bakers can get creative. By the way, Hello Dolly bars are a hit at bake sales and block parties. Ingredients 1/2 cup butter 1 cup graham cracker crumbs

1 cup shredded coconut 1 cup chocolate chips 1 cup chopped nuts (optional) 1 can condensed milk Directions 1. Melt the butter and pour into a 9x9 pan, mix in the graham cracker crumbs and spread evenly. 2. Add layer of coconut, then chocolate chips, and if appealing, nuts. 3. Pour condensed milk evenly over the top. 4. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until glazed slightly brown on top. 5. Cool, cut into squares and enjoy.

*OK full disclosure, I can’t get my son to eat them in their traditional recipe form because he thinks he doesn’t like coconut, although he has never actually tried it. He’s stubborn that way, but the beauty of Hello Dollies is that the recipe is extremely forgiving and flexible. You can substitute, add, or leave out ingredients to your family’s taste.

Corinne Zola is a founder and current boardmember of the Westchester Children’s Museum. She lives in Mamaroneck with her husband, son and daughter, and their dog Penny.

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100 Charact+ er s !

Expecting? Expect more.

World-class maternity care at NewYork-Presbyterian Lawrence Hospital. Our maternity program provides 24/7 care in comfortable and private accommodations for every woman and her family. Find an expert OB/GYN, including Columbia doctors specializing in fertility issues and maternal-fetal medicine, at nyp.org/lawrence-obgyn or call 914-787-5000.